Question : Best way to duplicate Windows environment in ESX lab?

We have a requirement to be able to easily run-up a copy of one of our Windows AD environments at short notice for testing purposes.  It would be used for things like schema extension testing, site-wide software testing (new exchange, SCCM etc).

We're running the environment on ESXi 4.0U1 hosts.  I basically need to copy a/some of the domain controllers and be able to bring up a new environment with the same domain name, users, groups etc at short notice.

What is the best way to do this?  Can I just copy the vm, stick the copy on a new VLAN and keep the existing IPs?  Should I use lab manager for this?

Answer : Best way to duplicate Windows environment in ESX lab?

As long the lab network will in no way have any connectivity to the production network I don't see why you can't make copies of the DC VM's, and you can use the same IP's as you are now. The easiest way to make a copy is to shutdown the VM and use FastSCP.

You can use Lab Manager if you want to, but it seems like overkill for this.