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VMware vSphere Training Package
Industry Recognized Training: 2010, 2009 Editor's Best and Community Choice Award from Windows IT Pro

VMware vSphere Training Package

Our VMware vSphere Training Course and The First & Second Volumes of Our VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Courses Features an Unprecedented lineup of Instructors Including vExperts David Davis, Hal Rottenberg, Rick Scherer, Eric Siebert, and Sean Clark.

This Course Includes All of the Following:

  • Instant Online Access to Your TrainingInstant Online Access Begin Streaming Your Training Immediately
  • Physical Media Shipped Directly to Your DoorstepPhysical Media Shipped Directly to Your Doorstep For Free, Worldwide
  • Free Award-Winning Practice Exam Transcender Practice Exam Practice For Your Exam With This Award-Winning Exam Preparation
  • $794
  • Paying with Purchase Order?
  • View Outline
  • Package ContentsIndividually Priced
    VMware vSphere 4 Training$397
    VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1$297
    VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 2$297
    Total Package Value$991

Overview

  • Train Anywhere You Want Mobile On-Demand Training Train Where You Want, When You Want
  • Additional Training Formats Additional Training Formats High Resolution Video, MP3 Audio and PDF of Instructor Notes
  • Watch a Demo

Also Included: Best of vSphere 4.1 for vNerds

This additional course, included for free via My Online Training, covers the new features in ESXi 4.1

Professional Training

  • Over 51 Hours (51 Hours, 9 Minutes, 49 Seconds) of VMware vSphere Training Package Videos Jam Packed on 8 DVDs!
  • Multiple File Formats Make it convenient for you to learn anywhere you go! iPod Video, Mp3 Audio, .WMV & high quality .AVI video
  • PDF of Instructor Notes allow you to follow along with the videos and take more organized notes
  • Instant Access Online to the entire training course

Exam Preparation

  • Exam Coverage This course covers exam objectives required for you to pass:
    • VCP - VMware Certified Professional Exam
  • FREE, FULL VERSION of Transcender's Practice Exam for:
    • VCP - VMware Certified Professional Exam
    We've partnered with Transcender®, the leading exam simulation provider in the world! Purchased separately, you would pay $139! But you get it FREE as the perfect training companion to our VMware vSphere Training Package!

Package Contents

VMware vSphere 4 Training

VMware vSphere 4 Training (VCP)

  • Nearly 19 Hours of VMware vSphere 4 Training Videos on 3 Jam Packed DVDs!
  • Complete VCP Exam Coverage!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's VCP Practice Exam!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's VCP Virtual Lab!
VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1

VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1

  • Over 10 Hours of VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1 Videos on 2 Jam Packed DVDs!
  • Complete Exam Coverage!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's Practice Exam!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's Virtual Lab!
VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 2

VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 2

  • Over 21 Hours of VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 2 Videos on 3 Jam Packed DVDs!
  • Complete Exam Coverage!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's Practice Exam!
  • FREE FULL VERSION of Transcender's Virtual Lab!

Course Outline

VMware vSphere 4 Training - Course Outline

Lesson 1 - Introduction to VMware vSphere

Learn what VMware vSphere is and what is covered in this vSphere course.

  • What is VMware vSphere?
  • What We Will Cover in This vSphere Training Course
Lesson 2 - Meet Your Instructor

In this video you will find out a little bit about your instructor, David Davis, and you will learn about the importance of VMware.

  • Meet Your Instructor
  • Why is VMware ESX So Important to Me, You, and the Future of IT?
Lesson 3 - Our Scenario with the Wired Brain Coffee Company

In this video you will learn about the scenario we will be using throughout the course, which will allow us to work hands on with VMware vSphere in a corporate setting.

  • Our Scenario
  • Your Role in the Company
  • Network Diagram
Lesson 4 - VMware Certification - Preparing for the VCP and VCDX

In this video you will discover the benefits of becoming a VCP and you will learn the best way to prepare for your VCP and VCDX exams.

  • What are My VMware Certification Options?
  • What Does It Take to Get a VCP?
  • What Are the Benefits to Becoming a VCP?
  • How Do I Upgrade My VCP Certification?
  • How Do I Best Prepare for the VCP?
  • What Does It Take to Get a VCDX?
  • What is a vExpert?
Lesson 5.1 - Introduction to Virtualization

In this video we are starting with the basics of virtualization. If you're new to virtualization this video will be a great place to start out and if you are more experienced with virtualization, then this video will be a great virtualization review as you start to work your way through the rest of the course.

  • What is Virtualization?
  • Virtualization Management Layer Approach
  • Dedicated Virtualization Approach
  • What Are the Various Types of Virtualization?
  • Server Virtualization
  • Storage Virtualization
  • Network Virtualization
  • Application Virtualization
  • Desktop Virtualization
  • What Type of Virtualization is Right for Your?
  • What Makes Virtualization So Appealing?
  • How Can Server Virtualization Help Me?
Lesson 5.2 - Virtualization Products Compared

What are the differences between the various virtualization products that are available? In this video we will compare and contrast virtualization software and go over the pluses and minuses of each.

  • VMware ESX 4 Server
  • VMware Server
  • Microsoft Hyper-V
  • Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2 with SP1
  • Citrix XenServer
  • Competitive Comparison
Lesson 6 - VMware ESXi4 Free Edition for the SMB

In this video you will learn the differences between the free edition of VMware ESXi and vSphere. Plus, you will see why ESXi is a great solution for small businesses.

  • What Does VMware ESXi Free Edition Offer You?
  • Why is ESXi Free Ideal for the SMB?
  • Hardware Requirements
  • Getting and Installing ESXi Free
  • VMware ESXi Free Edition FAQ
  • ESXi vs. vSphere
Lesson 7 - VMware vSphere 4 and ESX Essentials

In this video we will discuss the new features and versions of vSphere and vSphere related products. Plus, we will delve into one of the hottest IT topics around today, Cloud Computing.

  • vSphere Overview
  • vSphere Offers New Features
  • Learning “vEverything” – vCloud, vCompute, vNetwork, vStorage, and vMore
  • Cloud Computing
  • vSphere Components
  • VMware vSphere-Related Products
  • Packaging and Versions
  • No, You Cannot Buy ESX
  • New Licensing Changes in vSphere
  • Upgrading from Virtual Infrastructure Suite/ESX 3.x
Lesson 8.1 - vSphere Management Options

In this video you will learn how to utilize the different management options of vSphere in order to properly take advantage of the features that vSphere offers.

  • How Do I Manage This Thing?
  • What’s the Password, Man?
  • Point Your Web Browser to ESX and vCenter
  • Command Line Junkies – COS and SSH
  • Hacking the ESXi Console to Gain Access
  • I Love the vSphere Client!
Lesson 8.2 - Installing the VMware vSphere Client

Before you install the vSphere Client, you need to understand the installation requirements to make sure everything installs smoothly. Plus, we will actual download and perform a VMware vSphere installation.

  • vSphere Client Installation Requirements
  • vSphere Client Includes...
  • Downloading and Installing the vSphere Client
Lesson 8.3 - Navigating vSphere using the vSphere Client

Installing the vSphere Client won't do you much good if you're unsure how to use it. In this video, I will walk you through what you need to know to successfully utilize the vSphere Client.

  • vSphere Terminology (Lingo)
  • Using the vSphere Client
  • Navigating the vSphere Client with Hotkeys
  • Searching the Virtual Infrastructure
  • Sorting and Filtering in the vSphere Client
  • Exporting Data
  • Running Reports
  • Performing VM Guest Remote Control
Lesson 9 - Running VMware ESX 4 in Workstation

In this video you will learn why running VMware ESX 4 in Workstation may be beneficial. Plus, you will learn about the requirements for this type of setup and the best way to configure VMware ESX in Workstation.

  • Why Would You Want to Run ESX in WS?
  • What is Required?
  • Do I Have the Right CPU?
  • How Do You Configure Your Workstation VM That Will Run ESX?
  • Creating ESX Server 4.0 Inside Workstation
  • Running Our New ESX Server
Lesson 10.1 - Installing VMware ESX 4

In this video you will prepare to install VMware ESX 4 and you can follow along as your instructor downloads and installs VMware ESX 4, step-by-step.

  • Why is Hardware Compatibility so Important?
  • How to Check Hardware Compatibility
  • Official Hardware Requirements
  • Downloading VMware ESX 4
  • Installing VMware ESX 4, Step by Step
  • Starting ESX 4 for the First Time
  • Installation Tips and Tricks
Lesson 10.2 - Installing VMware ESXi Version 4

In this video you will learn the process of checking for hardware compatability, checking hardware requirements, and you will work hands on to install and configure your own ESXi Server!

  • Why is Hardware Compatibility so Important?
  • How to Check Hardware Compatability
  • Official Hardware Requirements
  • ESXi Installation Notes
  • ESXi is the “Real Deal”
  • Difference Between ESXi Free, ESXi Installable, and ESXi Embedded
  • Downloading VMware ESXi Version 4
  • Installing VMware ESXi Version 4, Step By Step
  • 5 Steps to Configuring Your New ESXi Server
  • Checking DNS in a Web Browser
Lesson 11.1 - Installing VMware vCenter 4

In this video you will learn about the new features of vCenter 4. Plus, you will see how to install and configure vCenter 4 step by step.

  • vCenter 101 – What You Need to Know
  • What&rsqup;s New in vCenter4
  • Installation Requirements and Prerequisites
  • vCenter Server Components & Add-Ons
  • Required Ports for vCenter
  • How and Where to Download vCenter 4
  • Advantages to Installing vCenter in a VM
  • Installing vCenter 4, Step-by-Step
  • Verifying Our Installation
Lesson 11.2 - Installing VMware ESXi Version 4

In this video you will see how to properly name and organize your Virtual Infrastructure. Plus, you will work hands on to create and configure your own Virtual Infrastructure.

  • Planning the Virtual Infrastructure
  • Wired Brain Coffee Company Network Diagram
  • Creating Our Virtual Infrastructure
  • Configuring vSphere Licensing
  • Removing “Getting Started” Tabs
  • Configuring the ESX Server Clock and NTP
  • vCenter Server Settings and Plugins
  • Reviewing System Logs
  • vCenter Sessions
  • vCenter Service Status
  • Monitoring ESX Host Health Hardware Status
Lesson 11.3 - Creating and Modifying Virtual Guest Machines

Installing a guest operating system in a guest virtual machine can be tricky and in this video you will see how to avoid common issues while installing a guest OS. Plus, you will work hands on to create your own guest virtual machine and install a guest operating system.

  • Changing BIOS Settings in a Guest VM
  • Creating ISO Images of CD/DVD Install Media
  • Using LC ISO Creator
  • Transferring ISO Files to Your ESX Server
  • Using Datastore Browser Upload Feature
  • Using Secure Copy Protocol (SCP)
  • Using PuTTY
  • Samba Client Share
  • Creating a New Virtual Machine and Installing the OS
  • VMware Guest OS Install Guide
  • VMware Compatibility Guide
  • Steps to Installing Your New Guest VM
  • Creating a New VM
  • Installing a Guest Operating System
  • Downloading VMs from Virtual Appliance Marketplace
Lesson 11.4 - Installing and Configuring VMware Tools

In this video I will show you why using VMware Tools is essential and I will cover everything from installing, configuring and updating VMware Tools.

  • Why You Should Use the VMware Tools
  • Installing the VMware Tools in Linux
  • Verifying VMware Tools Installation
  • Running VMware Toolbox in Linux
  • Updating VMware Tools
  • Installing the VMware Tools in Windows
  • Configuring VMware Tools with VMware Toolbox
  • How to Use Searching, Sorting, and Filtering to Find Out if VMware Tools are Installed
Lesson 11.5 - Adding Virtual Machine Hardware with vSphere Hot Plug

One of the main benefits of virtualization is the ability to add new virtual machine hardware to your VM quickly and efficiently. In this video you will learn how to "Hot Add" RAM and "Hot Plug" for CPU while your virtual machine is running.

  • Adding, Modifying, and Removing Virtual Hardware
  • What Are the Requirements to Use vSphere Hot Add/Hot Plug?
  • Using Hot Add to Add RAM to a Virtual Machine
  • Using Hot Plug to Add CPU to a Virtual Machine
  • Using Hot Add and Hot Plug without a Reboot
  • Adding a 2nd Virtual Disk to a Running Virtual Machine
  • Expanding a Virtual Disk on a Running Virtual Machine
Lesson 11.6 - Using vSphere Host Profiles

In this video you will see how to solve common issues like standardizing ESX Server configuration, using Host Profiles. This is a cool new feature in vSphere that you can't afford to miss!

  • Standardizing ESX Server Configuration with vSphere Host Profiles
  • 5 Steps to Using Host Profiles
  • Creating and Editing Host Profiles
  • Checking Compliance
  • Applying Host Profiles to Servers and Clusters
  • Another Way of Checking Compliance
Lesson 12.1 - Administering VMware ESX Server Security

In this video you will learn how to use the various security tools of vSphere to make sure your virtual environment is properly secured.

  • Basics of vSphere Security
  • VMsafe and vShield Overview
  • Default vSphere Security Roles
  • Adding, Modifying, and REmoving ESX Users and Groups
  • Using Windows AD Users and Groups to Secure vSphere
  • Using AD to Give Specific Access
  • Defining and Applying Roles and Permissions
  • Creating Custom Role
  • Allowing Root Login via SSH
  • Securing Guest Virtual Machines
Lesson 13.1 - Introduction to and Installing VMware Data Recovery (VDR)

In this video you will learn how to install and configure VDR. Plus, we will discuss the benefits and limitations of VDR.

  • What is VMware Data Recovery (VDR)
  • Why Do I Need VDR?
  • How Do I Get Data Recovery?
  • What Are the Benefits of Using VDR?
  • What Are the Limitations of VDR?
  • How Does VDR Work?
  • Installing VMware Data Recovery
  • Configuring VDR Appliance
  • Installing VDR Plug-In
  • Connecting VDR Appliance to VMware vCenter
Lesson 13.2 - Backup and Restore with VMware Data Recovery (VDR)

In this video you will work hands on to backup and restore data on your own virtual machines.

  • Creating a Backup Destiniation – Local
  • Adding a Network Share
  • Creating a VDR Backup Job
  • Gotchas of VMware Data Recovery
  • Checking Backup Job Status
  • Recovering/Restoring an ESX Guest VM
Lesson 14.1 - Virtual Storage 101 and Storage Terminology

Storage is a critical piece of any virtual infrastructure. In this video you will learn the critical knowledge you will need to properly utilize Virtual Storage.

  • Storage 101s
  • Storage Area Networks 101
  • Understanding iSCSI Storage
  • Why You Need a Storage Area Network (SAN)
  • Storage Terms You Must Know
  • What Is in a Database?
  • ESX Server Storage Options
  • VMFS Specs and Maximums
Lesson 14.2 - Configuring vSphere Storage

In this video you will work hands on to configure vSphere Storage using the virtual storage theory you have learned thus far.

  • New vSphere Datastore Inventory
  • Datastore Maps
  • Datastore Performance
  • Datastore Configuration Tab
  • Datastore Tasks, Events, Alarms, and Permissions
  • Database Storage Views
  • Thin Provisioning for Fun and Profit
  • Creating New Virtual Machine with Thin Provision Disk
  • Finding Out the Disk Provisioning Type on Existing Disks
  • Converting a Thick Provision Disk to a Thin Provision Disk and Vice Versa
  • Storage Views in Relation to Thin Provisioning
  • Configure an Alarm to Prevent Overprovision
  • Digging Into Datastores
  • Taking and Using vSphere Snapshots
  • Creating and Deleting Snapshots
Lesson 14.3 - Creating a Free iSCSI SAN with OpenFiler

A Storage Area Network is the best way to manage storage when you have two or more servers. In this video I will show you how to use OpenFiler to configure iSCSI so that you will have one place to back up your data and manage your data as it grows.

  • OpenFiler Can “Open” Your Eyes to a SAN
  • Free SAN for All – Downloading OpenFiler
  • Installing OpenFiler
  • Configuring OpenFiler
  • Configuring OpenFiler as Our iSCSI SAN
  • Configuring iSCSI in vSphere 4
  • Creating a New Datastore for Our New Connection
Lesson 15.1 - vSphere Virtual Networking

In this video you will learn about the vNetwork and the benefits of network virtualization. You will see how Virtual Networking can save your company time and money when it comes to implementation, troubleshooting, and getting away from physical hardware.

  • vNetwork Overview
  • New vNetwork Features in vSphere
  • vNetwork Terms – vmnic, vswitch, vswif, & Port Group
  • Viewing Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) Stats
  • vNetwork Configuration Scenarios – Single NIC
  • vNetwork Configuration Scenarios – Private/Host Only
  • vNetwork Configuration Scenarios – Multiple NICs
  • Using VLANs with vSphere
  • Configuring vNetworks and vSwitches
  • Moving Linux Servers to New VM Network
  • Providing ESX3 with Network Redundancy and Load Balancing
  • Checking Out Network Traffic Shaping and Security Options
  • CLI Network Troubleshooting Commands
  • Best Practices for vSphere Networking
Lesson 15.2 - Using the vSphere Distributed Virtual Switch (dvswitch)

The vNetwork Distributed Switch is a new feature that can only be found in VMware vSphere. In this video you will learn how to configure the vDS to provide consistent networking across all hosts.

  • Introduction to the vNetwork Distributed Switch (vDS)
  • Comparing the vSphere Standard Switch to the Distributed Virtual Switch
  • Benefits of the Distributed Virtual Switch
  • Creating a New dvSwitch and Adding Hosts and vmnics to dvSwitch
  • Creating a dvport Group
  • Migrating a Single Virtual Machine
  • Migrating Legacy vSwitches and VM Networks to dvSwitch
  • Migrating Virtual Adaptors (SC & VMKernel) to dvSwitch
  • Viewing dvSwitch Mapping, Adv Conf, & Alarms
Lesson 16.1 - Understanding and Using Tasks, Events, and Alarms

In this video you will work hands on to learn how to use tasks and events and how to access them at different levels of the virtual infrastructure. Plus, you will learn to configure SNMP and SMTP to send email from vCenter.

  • Understanding Tasks and Events
  • Exporting Events
  • “Events Home” Section
  • Creating Scheduled Tasks
  • Configuring SNMP Traps in vCenter
  • Configuring SMTP Email in vCenter
  • Alerting with vCenter Alarms
Lesson 17 - Performance Optimization in VMware vSphere

In this video you will learn about the best practices to improve your vSphere 4 performance. Plus, we will work with several performance management tools and use them to view performance information inside the vSphere Client and at the command line.

  • What’s New in vSphere 4 Related to Performance
  • Selecting the Right Hardware
  • Performance Best Practices
  • Why You Should Care About “Ready Time”
  • vSphere Performance Management Tools
  • CLI Performance Tool esxtop on ESX Full and ESXi
  • vSphere Performance Management Tools
  • 3rd Party Performance Management Tools
  • Using Distributed Resource Scheduler (DRS)
Lesson 18 - Upgrading from VMware ESX 3.x and Virtual Infrastructure to vSphere 4

Is your company currently using a version of ESX 3.x? Don't let the daunting task of upgrading get you down! In this video we will work step by step through the upgrade process from ESX 3.x to vSphere 4.

  • Upgrade Prerequisites
  • Basic Upgrade Process
  • Edition Licenses
  • Upgrade Checklist for the Wired Brain Coffee Company
  • vCenter Server Upgrade
  • ESX Host Upgrade Using the vSphere Host Upgrade Utility
  • Upgrading VMware Tools and Virtual Hardware Version
  • Upgrading Licensing
Lesson 19.1 - Moving Virtual Machines with VMotion

In this video you will learn how to use VMotion to move RUNNING virtual machines off of one ESX server and onto another ESX server. That means that your end users can use the applications on the virtual machine while you are moving it, resulting in virtually no downtime! You can't afford to miss this video!

  • Why You need VMotion
  • VMotion Requirements
  • VMotioning Virtual Machines
Lesson 19.2 - Moving Virtual Storage with SVMotion

In this video you will learn how to move the storage of RUNNING virtual machines from one datastore to another datastore. Plus, you will work hands on with SVMotion to migrate your storage to another datastore.

  • What is SVMotion?
  • SVMotion Requirements
  • Thin Provisioning and SVMotion
  • SVMotion Your Storage – Step-by-Step
Lesson 19.3 - Load Balancing with Distributed Resource Scheduler (DRS)

As utilization of your virtual infrastructure begins to grow, you will notice that the load on some virtual machines will be much greater than others. In this video you will learn how to use the Distributed Resource Scheduler to guarantee service levels and prevent a single virtual machine from monopolizing all of the resources.

  • Auto Load Balancing with DRS
  • Requirements to Use DRS
  • Reserving Resources
  • Creating a DRS Enabled Cluster
  • Adding ESX Servers to Our Cluster
  • Testing DRS
  • Using Resource Allocation
  • DRS/HA Cluster Settings
  • Resource Distribution Chart
  • Creating Resource Pools
Lesson 19.4 - Implementing High Availability with VMware HA (VMHA)

In this video you will learn how to use High Availability to bring back a critical application in the event of an ESX server failure. Plus, you will work hands on to configure VMHA in your own virtual environment.

  • Why Do You Need High Availability (HA)?
  • VMHA Saving the Day
  • Requirements for VMHA
  • Configuring VMHA, Step-by-Step
  • Adding ESX Host to the Cluster
  • Enabling VMHA
  • Testing VMHA
  • Optional VMHA Configurations
  • Best Practices for VMHA
Lesson 19.5 - Super High Availability with VMware Fault Tolerance (FT)

In this video you will learn how to implement Fault Tolerance to provide continuous availability for a Virtual Machine. This literally means you will see how to make sure your Virtual Machines experience zero downtime!

  • Achieve Zero Downtime with Fault Tolerance (FT)
  • Requirements of FT
  • Constraints of FT
  • Testing to See If You Can Use FT with VMware Site Survey
  • Flip the Switch and Enable FT!
  • Testing Failover of Fault Tolerance Virtual Machine

VMware vSphere 4 Training - Bonus Lessons

Lesson 12.2 - Installing vShield Zones

In this video you’ll learn about vShield, VMware’s virtual firewall, used to filter traffic in your virtual infrastructure. You'll learn how to download vShield and get it up and running in your vSphere infrastructure.

  • The vShield Zones Browser Interface
  • Introduction to vShield Zones
  • What Does vShield Offer You?
  • Downloading vShield Zones
  • Installing vShield Zones
  • Deploying vShield Manager and vShields
  • Configuring vShield Manager and vShields
  • Configuring vShield Manager
  • Deploying a vShield and Converting it to a VM Template
  • Initial Configuration of vShield Zones
  • Initial Configuration of vShield Zones - Connecting vShield Manager to vCenter Server
  • Initial Configuration of vShield Zones - Deploying the vShield Template
Lesson 16.2 - Searching, Sorting, Filtering and Exporting in vSphere

Likely you use an Internet search engine every day but how do you search your virtual infrastructure? vSphere searching, sorting, and filtering provides you the virtual items that you are looking for.

  • Searching vSphere Inventory
  • Sorting & Filtering Inventory
  • Exporting Lists and Logs
  • Exporting vSphere Maps
  • Exporting Performance Reports
Lesson 16.3 - Using VMware vApps

Learn what a vApp is, how it can help you, and how to build your vApp in your own vSphere infrastructure.

  • Vocabulary You Should Know
  • vApp Overview
  • New OVF 1.0 Additions in vSphere 4
  • How do vSpps Relate to the VCP 4 Certification?
  • VMware Virtual Appliance Marketplace
  • Importing a Virtual Appliance
  • Building a vApp
  • Adding a VM to Your vApp
  • Editing vApp Properties
  • Groups and Start Order
  • Exporting Your vApp
  • Importing Your vApp
  • Cloning a vApp
  • Using the Free OVF Tool
Lesson 20.1 - Introduction and Installation of VMware vSphere CLI (vCLI)

How do you administer vSphere from command line? The two most popular options are - PowerCLI and vCLI (previously RCLI). In this video, we cover how vCLI can help you and how to install it.

  • vCLI Overview
  • Installing vCLI
Lesson 20.2 - Introduction and Installation of the vSphere Management Assistant (vMA)

In this video, we cover the vSphere Management Assistant, or vMA (previously VIMA). This virtual management appliance installs easily, contains the vCLI, and allows you to manage your virtual infrastructure from the command line.

  • vMA Overview
  • Deploying vMA
Lesson 20.3 - Using VMware’s vMA and vCLI to Administer VMware ESX and ESXi via CLI

In this video, we cover how to access vMA and vCLI, the benefits of using these tools to administer ESX and ESXi, and 10 great script commands.

Lesson 20.4 - Installing and Using the VMware VI-Perl Toolkit

If you know Perl, the VMware VI-Perl Toolkit is the ideal way to report on and administer your virtual infrastructure from the command line. Learn how to install and use the VI-Perl Toolkit in this video.

Lesson 20.5 - Using the VMware Guest Console (VGC)

Learn about VMware Labs, where VMware developers test their new projects before release, and learn about one very helpful tool, VMware Guest Console (VGC), and how it helps with VM management and administration.

  • What is the VI-Perl Tool
  • VMware Server
  • Microsoft Hyper-V
  • Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2 with SP1
  • Citrix XenServer
  • Competitive Comparison
Lesson 21.1 - VMware Go: The On Ramp to Virtualization

The VMware GO web portal allows you to download, configure, and administer VMware ESXi and the best part is that it completely free.

  • What Does VMware ESXi Free Edition Offer You?
  • Why is ESXi Free Ideal for the SMB?
  • Hardware Requirements
  • Getting and Installing ESXi Free
  • VMware ESXi Free Edition FAQ
  • ESXi vs. vSphere
Lesson 21.2 - My Home VMware vSphere Lab

How do I run vSphere in my own home lab? Learn the equipment I use, why I use it, and how you can inexpensively build your own home VMware vSphere lab.

  • vSphere Overview
  • vSphere Offers New Features
  • Learning "vEverything" – vCloud, vCompute, vNetwork, vStorage, and vMore
  • Cloud Computing
  • vSphere Components
  • VMware vSphere-Related Products
  • Packaging and Versions
  • No, You Cannot Buy ESX
  • New Licensing Changes in vSphere
  • Upgrading from Virtual Infrastructure Suite/ESX 3.x

VMware View & ThinApp

Lesson 1 - Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Overview - Understanding the Options

You have probably used or are familiar with server virtualization. Now, virtualizing desktops is the next step in your virtualization process and this video will show you the various options that are available in Virtual Desktop Infrastructure to accomplish your desktop virtualization goals.

  • What is VDI?
  • Why Should You Use VDI?
  • VDI Network Diagrams
  • Thin Clients
  • VDI vs. Terminal Services
  • The Most Popular VDI Options
Lesson 2 - Introduction to VMware View 4

VMware View is the #1 desktop virtualization product available and in this video you will learn exactly what VMware View can do for your organization and the best possible way to prepare to install VMware View 4.

  • What Does View Offer You?
  • Return on Investment
  • Requirements to Use View 4
  • View 4 Components
  • View 4 Administrator Console and Client Display
  • How to Evaluate and Download View
  • View Resources
Lesson 3 - Installing VMware View 4

In this video you will create a plan to install VMware View. Plus, you will work hands-on to install VMware View 4 and its components.

  • Planning Your View Infrastructure
  • Advanced View Topics
  • Requirements to Install View Connection Server
  • Installing the View Connedtion Server
  • Installing View Composer
  • Preparing a Guest OS to be a Virtual Desktop
  • Installing the View Agent
  • Installing the View Client
Lesson 4 - Deploying Virtual Desktops with View

In this video you will learn how to add an individual virtual desktop and point your virtual desktop to a virtual machine. Plus, you will learn how to use the VMware View Client to connect to that virtual desktop. By working through this process you will actually end up testing the entire View infrustructure that you’ve worked to create thus far.

  • Adding Virtual Desktops
  • Assigning Desktop Sources
  • Creating Entitlements for Desktops
Lesson 5 - Automated Virtual Desktop Deployment with View Pools

In this video you will learn how to use a golden virtual machine snapshot to be used by VMware Composer to roll out the Automated View Pool. Plus, you will work hands-on with the View Client and web based View Portal to test the pool you’ve just created.

  • Taking a Snapshot of the Golden Virtual Machine
  • Creating Automated View Pools
  • Giving Entitlements to Users and Groups
  • Testing Pools in the View Client and View Portal
Lesson 6 - Adding a Terminal Services Pool in View

If you are already using Terminal Services then you will want to take advantage of the option to add a Terminal Services Desktop Pool. In this video you will work hands-on to Add a Terminal Services Pool in order to give your end users the flexibility to connnect to individual View Virtual Desktops or a Windows Server 2008 Remote Desktop Server/Terminal Server.

  • Benefits of Terminal Services Desktop Pools
  • Adding TS Desktop Pools
  • Entitling TS Pools
  • Testing TS Pools in View Client
Lesson 7 - Understanding View Composer Linked Clones

In this video you will learn how View Composer helps you to save disk space and to roll out desktop images. Plus, you will work hands on to upgrade multiple desktops to Windows 7 in under 10 minutes!

  • How View Composer Helps You
  • View Composer Replicas
  • Desktop Recomposition
  • Desktop Refresh
  • Upgrading Multiple Desktops to Windows 7 in Under 10 Minutes
Lesson 8 - Introduction to ThinApp 4

In this video you will learn how to utilize ThinApp to avoid application conflicts and run multiple revisions of the same application. Plus, you will learn how to utilize ThinApp so that you won’t have to install applications on end user desktops ever again!

  • What is Application Virtualization?
  • How Can ThinApp Help You?
  • What Makes ThinApp Unique?
  • How Does ThinApp Fit in with Other Types of Virtualization?
  • ThinApp Usage Scenarios
  • Four Steps to Virtualizing an Application with ThinApp
Lesson 9 - Installing ThinApp

In this video you will learn how to properly prepare for a ThinApp installation. Plus, you will work hands-on to install ThinApp on your own virtual machine.

  • Requirements to Use ThinApp
  • Why You Need a ""Pristine OS""
  • What Can and Cannot Be Virtualized
  • Downloading and Installing ThinApp and VMware Workstation
  • Installing ThinApp on the Virtual Machine
  • Taking a Snapshot of the Pristine OS
Lesson 10 - Virtualizing Applications with ThinApp

In this video you will work to virtualize Office 2007 with ThinApp. You can use this same process to virtualize any application! Plus, you will work hands-on to create a ThinApp library of virtual applications that can be run across multiple operating systems.

  • Four Steps to Virtualizing Office 2007
  • Prescanning the Clean OS
  • Installing and Configuring the Applications
  • Postscan
  • Choosing Options and Building the Package
  • Post-Capture Customization
  • Testing the Application
  • Building a ThinApp Application Library

Cisco Nexus 1000V VMware vSphere Third-Party Virtual Distributed Switch

Lesson 1 - Getting Started with the Nexus 1000V

The Cisco Nexus 1000V is Cisco’s powerful add-on network switch for VMware vSphere. In this video you will learn the details of what the Cisco Nexus 1000V is and how it is used. Plus, you will learn how to obtain and install the Cisco Nexus 1000V Virtual Supervisor Module.

  • vNetwork Review
  • Cisco Nexus 1000V Overview
  • Cisco Nexus 1000V VSM Requirements
  • Cisco Nexus 1000V VSM Installation
Lesson 2 - Integrating the Cisco Nexus 1000V with vCenter Server

In this video you will use a Java based utility to finalize the VSM installation. Plus, you will work hands-on to install your own VEM on an ESX Host and then add that ESX Host to the N1KV dvSwitch.

  • Final Configuration of the VSM
  • Installing the VEM on the ESX Host
  • Adding an ESX Host to the N1KV dvSwitch
  • Verifying Installation
Lesson 3 - High Availability Options for the Cisco Nexus 1000V

In this video you will learn how to properly utilize the high availability options of the Cisco Nexus 1000V to limit the impact of hardware and software failures.

  • Nexus 1000V HA Options
  • Service-Level High Availability
  • Process Restartability
  • Network-Level High Availability
  • Installing a Secondary VSM and Linking it to Existing VSM
Lesson 4 - Configuring Port Profiles on the Cisco Nexus 1000V

Port-Profiles contain all the necessary information for network access. In this video you will work hands-on to configure the different port profiles to properly utilize the benefits of each.

  • Creating Uplink Port-Profile
  • Creating VM Port-Profile
  • Adding ESX Host to a N1KV and Migrating the Service Console to the N1KV
  • Removing the ESX Host from the N1KV

Managing VMware vSphere with PowerCLI

Lesson 1 - Introduction to Power CLI

In this video you will learn how PowerCLI will help harness the power of scripting and automation from a real-world perspective. Plus, you will work hands-on to download and install PowerCLI.

  • Videos in this Series
  • What is PowerCLI?
  • PowerCLI Window
  • How Does PowerCLI Work?
  • Why Learn PowerCLI?
  • Downloading the Toolkit
  • Installing PowerCLI
  • The PowerCLI Console
Lesson 2 - PowerShell Basics

In this video you will learn the basics you need to know to use Windows PowerShell. Plus, you will work through real-world PowerShell demonstrations, so that you are able to understand and apply the core concepts of PowerShell in your own virtual environment.

  • PowerShell the Command-Line Interface
  • PowerShell the Script Engine
  • Variables
  • Automatic Variables
  • Operators
  • Cmdlets
  • Parameters
  • Typing Savers for the CLI
  • The Pipeline
  • Flow Control
  • Object-Oriented Scripting
  • Reading a PowerShell Script
  • Integrated Scripting Environments (ISE) and More
  • Other Resources
Lesson 3.1 - PowerCLI Concepts - Part 1

In this video you will work hands-on with the many components of PowerCLI to connect to and manage your vSphere environment.

  • Support Matrix
  • vSphere Object Model
  • Managed Objects
  • Automation Objects
  • Connecting to vSphere and vCenter
  • PowerCLI Cmdlets
  • Inventory and Reporting
  • Deployment and Configuration
  • Maintenance and Operations
  • Removing Snapshots
  • Starting and Stopping VMs
  • Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution
  • Examining Virtual Machines
Lesson 3.2 - PowerCLI Concepts - Part 2

In this video you will complete several hands-on demonstrations that involve working with objects in PowerShell. Then, you will learn how these objects are applied to PowerCLI.

  • The Pipeline
  • Examining Objects
  • Filtering Objects
  • Exporting Data Using Export-CSV Cmdlet
  • Exporting Data Using ConvertTo-HTML Cmdlet
  • Reporting Features within vEcoshell
  • Using the vSphere API
Lesson 4 - Power CLI in the Real World

In this video you will work through several different real-world demonstrations including building a Virtual Farm, finding old snapshots and creating linked clones.

  • When to Script?
  • From Console to Script
  • Build a Virtual Farm
  • Script to Create a New Farm
  • Find Old Snapshots
  • First Script for Finding Old Snapshots
  • Second Script for Finding Old Snapshots
  • Created Linked Clones
  • Script for Creating a Linked Clone
  • Quick Tips and One-Liners
Lesson 5 - PowerCLI Cmdlet Deep Dives

In this video you will take a detailed look at some PowerCLI Cmdlets and you will learn how the different parameters of these Cmdlets work to help you control your virtual infrastructure from the command line. Plus, you will work hands-on to create new and cloned virtual machines using the New-VM Cmdlet.

  • Deep Dive into New-VM
  • Create New Virtual Machines from Scratch
  • Creating a Virtual Machine
  • Clone an Existing Virtual Machine
  • Cloning a Virtual Machine
  • Create a Virtual Machine Based on a Template
  • Deploying a Template
  • Register an Existing Virtual Machine
  • Registering a Virtual Machine
  • New-VM - Other Features
  • Read the vCenter Event Log with Get-VIEvent
  • Using Get-VIEvent
  • Event Properties
  • Working with Event Objects

VMware Advanced Features Up Close - Eric Siebert

Lesson 1 - VMDirectPath

VMDirectPath can provide increased performance by allowing a VM to bypass the virtualization layer and directly access a device. In this video you’ll learn what the VMDirectPath feature is and how it allows you to dedicate storage and network adapters to a VM for their exclusive use. You’ll also learn the requirements and limitations when using VMDirectPath, how to setup and configure it as well as some tips and best practices for using it.

  • VMDirectPath Requirements and Limitations
  • How to Use VMDirectPath
  • VMDirectPath Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 2 - Paravirtual SCSI Adapters

In this video you’ll learn what the pvSCSI adapter is and how it can provide increased performance over the standard LSI Logic and BusLogic virtual storage adapters. You’ll also learn the requirements and limitations when using the pvSCSI adapter, how to setup and configure them and also when you should consider using a pvSCSI adapter in place of the standard storage adapters.

  • pvSCSI Requirements and Limitations
  • How to Use pvSCSI
  • pvSCSI Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 3 - Virtual Machine Communication Interface

In this video you’ll learn what the special VMCI adapter is and how it can provide a high speed communication interface between VMs on the same host. You’ll also learn the requirements and limitations for using VMCI as well as how to setup and configure it. Plus, you will discover some tips and best practices for using VMCI and also how applications must be adapted to support using a VMCI adapter.

  • Requirements, Limitations and How to Use VMCI
  • VMCI Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 4 - Fault Tolerance

In this video you’ll learn what the Fault Tolerance feature is and how it can provide continuous availability for your critical VMs. You’ll also learn about the many requirements and limitations when using Fault Tolerance as well as how to setup and configure it. Plus, you will discover some tips and best practices for using Fault Tolerance and also cover some of the caveats that you should be aware of when using it.

  • Fault Tolerance Requirements
  • Using the Site Survey Tool to Check Compatibility
  • Fault Tolerance Limitations
  • How to Use Fault Tolerance
  • Fault Tolerance Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 5 - Thin Provisioning

In this video you’ll learn what Thin Provisioned virtual disks are and how they can greatly reduce the amount of disk space that your VMs take up on your datastores. You'll also learn how thin disks differ from traditional thick virtual disks and how to convert thick disks to thin disks and vice versa. Plus, you will discover some tips and best practices for using thin disks as well as how to properly monitor and manage them.

  • Viewing Disk Information in vSphere Client
  • Requirements, Limitations and How to Use Thin Provisioning
  • Thin Provisioning Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 6 - VMotion and Storage VMotion

In this lesson you’ll learn about VMotion and Storage VMotion that allow you to move running VMs between hosts and storage datastores. You’ll also learn the requirements and limitations for using VMotion and Storage VMotion as well as how to setup and configure them. Plus, you will take a look at the Enhanced VMotion Compatibility feature, which can help eliminate CPU compatibility issues that can occur between hosts when using VMotion.

  • Requirements for Using VMotion, Enhanced VMotion Compatibility (EVC) and Storage VMotion
  • How to Use VMotion
  • How to Use Enhanced VMotion Compatibility
  • How to Use Storage VMotion
  • VMotion Tips and Best Practices
  • EVC and Storage VMotion Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 7 - Distributed Power Management

In this lesson you’ll be learning what Distributed Power Management (DPM) is and how it can provide dramatic cost savings for your vSphere environment. You will also discover the specific requirements for using DPM as well as the limitations when using it and how to configure it. Finally, you will learn about some tips and best practices for DPM so you can make the most out of this great money saving feature.

  • DPM Requirements and Limitations
  • How to Use DPM
  • DPM Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 8 - Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling

In this lesson you’ll be learning what Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) is and how it can provide dramatic cost savings for your vSphere environment. You will also learn how the technology behind DVFS works, the requirements for using DVFS as well as how to configure it. Finally, you will discover some tips and best practices for DVFS and how you can combine it with DPM for maximum cost savings in your vSphere environment.

  • How to Use Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS)
  • DVFS Tips and Best Practices
Lesson 9 - VMFS Volume Grow and Hot Extend Virtual Disks

In this lesson you’ll be learning how to dynamically grow VMFS volumes without using extents as well as extending virtual disk sizes on a running VM. You will also learn some great tips and best practices on sizing your LUNs properly, choosing VMFS volume block sizes and extending operating system disk partitions after you have extended virtual disks.

  • How to Use VMFS Volume Grow
  • How to Use Hot Extend Virtual Disks
  • VMFS Volume Grow and Hot Extend Virtual Disks Tips and Best Practices

VMware Site Recovery Manager 4 - Sean Clark

Lesson 1 - Virtualization for Disaster Recovery

In this video you will learn how virtualization enables superior disaster recovery (DR) and how VMware simplifies DR. Plus, you will get an overview of the Site Recovery Manager Architecture Prerequisites for installation.

  • Virtualization Enables Superior Disaster Recovery (DR)
  • Disaster Recovery Before VMware
  • VMware Simplifies Disaster Recovery
  • Site Recovery Manager (SRM) Automates DR
  • SRM High Level Architecture and Introduction
Lesson 2 - Preparing for SRM Installation

In this video you will learn about the VMware software requirements, database requirements, and server & network requirements, which you will need to plan out before your SRM Installation.

  • Supported Storage Replication
  • Install and Configure the HP Lefthand P4000 Virtual SAN Appliance
  • VMware Software Requirements
  • Database Requirements
  • Server and Network Requirements
Lesson 3 - Installing SRM

In this video you will learn how to install SRM, SRA, and the SRM plug-in for the vSphere Client. Plus, you will work hands-on to install SRM and SRA on protected sites and SRM Servers.

  • Review the Install Architecture
  • Install SRM
  • Install the Storage Replication Adapter (SRA)
  • Install the SRM Plugin for vSphere Client
Lesson 4 - Configuring SRM

In this video you will work step-by-step to configure SRM by configuring array managers (SRA) & inventory mappings, creating protection groups & recovery plans, and ultimately working to test your recovery plan.

  • Pair Protected Site with Recovery Site
  • Configure Array Managers
  • Configure Inventory Mappings
  • Create Protection Groups
  • Create and Test Recovery Plans
Lesson 5 - Custom Recovery Plans

In this video you will work to customize recovery plan steps and recovery options for VMs. Plus, you will learn how to reconfigure network settings for recovered machines, using VMware methods for individual VMs and groups, and non-VMware methods.

  • Custom Recovery Plan Steps
  • Custom Recovery Plan Gotchas
  • Demonstration of Recovery Steps
  • Custom Recovery for VMs
  • Demonstration of Custom Recovery Options for VMs
  • Options to Avoid VM Network Reconfigure
  • Pros and Cons of Common Layer 2 Network
Lesson 6 - Administering SRM

In this video you will learn about the various methods you will utilize to adjust your SRM setup to respond to changes in your environment, as well as help you with the day-to-day activities you will be required to handle as an SRM Administrator.

  • Protection Group Administration
  • Protected Datastore Administration
  • Inventory Mapping Administration
  • Administering SRM Alarms
  • Configuring Access Control for SRM
  • SRM Logs
  • Recovery Plan Reporting
Lesson 7 - Failover and Failback

In this video you will learn the best practices for planning and executing failover and you will discover the differences between synchronous and asynchronous replication for failover. Also, you will work hands-on to plan and execute Failback.

  • What is Failover?
  • Failover Best Practices
  • Demonstration of Executing Failover
  • Failback Planning and Setup
  • Executing Failback After Losing Protected Site
  • Executing Failback to Functioning Protected Site
  • Demonstration of Executing Failback

Introduction to Third-Party Virtualization Tools - David Davis

Lesson 1 - Introduction to Third-Party Virtualization Tools

In this video you will learn about the different third-party virtualization tools that are available and how they can help you.

  • Why You Need Third-Party Tools
  • Overview of Third-Party Tools for Virtualization
  • Why Virtualization on Specific Backup Products?

Veeam Monitor - David Davis

Lesson 1 - Introduction to Veeam Monitor

Monitoring and altering the performance of your virtual infrastructure is critical for any organization. In this video, you’ll learn about the latest version of Veeam’s Performance Reporting and Alerting tool and how it can help you fulfill these needs at your company.

  • What Does Veeam Monitor Offer?
  • Differences Between the Free and Commercial Veeam Monitor
  • What’s New in the Latest Version of Monitor?
  • Overview Demo of Veeam Monitor
Lesson 2 - Installing Veeam Monitor

In this video you will learn about the installation requirements, where to download, and how to install Veeam Monitor. Plus, you will work step-by-step to install Veeam Monitor in your own environment.

  • Veeam Monitor System Requirements
  • Downloading and Installing Veeam Monitor
Lesson 3 - Configuring and Using Veeam Monitor

Once Monitor is up and running, you need to perform the initial configuration to connect it to your vSphere infrastructure. From there, you will work hands-on to customize performance charts, generate reports, configure alarms, and connect Monitor to Business View.

  • Connecting Monitor to vCenter
  • Using Performance Charts
  • Customizing Performance Charts
  • Configuring Alarms and Using Modeling
  • Viewing Events
  • Generating Reports
  • Integrating Veeam Monitor with Business View

Veeam Reporter 4.0 - David Davis

Lesson 1 - Introduction to Veeam Reporter

In this video you will learn how to utilize the exciting new features of the most recent release of Veeam Reporter, including: Increased reporting functionality on changes happening in vCenter, creating documentation for disaster recovery, and reporting on the performance of multiple virtual infrastructures.

  • How Veeam Reporter Can Help You
  • Common Uses of Veeam Reporter
  • System Requirements to Use Reporter
  • New Features in Reporter 4.0
Lesson 2 - Installing Veeam Reporter

In this video you will learn some of the intracacies of how Veeam Reporter works, how to download it and properly install it, the first time.

  • Veeam Reporter Architecture
  • Veeam Reporter Licensing
  • Downloading Veeam Reporter
  • Installing Veeam Reporter Server
Lesson 3 - Configuring and Using Veeam Reporter

With Reporter installed, you’ll learn how to configure collection jobs to pull data from your vCenter servers. Plus, you will work to create automated report jobs, view offline reports with Report Viewer, and you will see how to export virtual infrastructure reports and diagrams to Microsoft Excel, Word, and Visio.

  • Overview of Veeam Reporter Interface
  • Controlling User Access to Reporter
  • Creating Collection Jobs to Pull vSphere Stats
  • Understanding Report Packs
  • Creating Manual Reports
  • Creating Automated Reports
  • Customizing Your Dashboard
  • Integrating Reporter with Business View
  • Viewing Offline Reports with Report Viewer
  • Exporting Reports to Word, Excel, and Visio

Veeam Backup and Replication - David Davis

Lesson 1 - Introduction to Veeam Backup and Replication

In this video you will work hands-on with Veeam Backup and Recovery to learn how to properly utilize it’s powerful features to help secure your virtual environment.

  • Feature Overview: Veeam Backup and Replication
  • Demo: Veeam Backup and Replication
Lesson 2 - Installing Veeam Backup and Replication

In this video you will learn about the various backup transport modes and system requirements of Veeam Backup. Plus, you will work step-by-step to install Veeam Backup and Replication.

  • Veeam Backup Architecture
  • Supported Backup Transport Modes
  • Veeam Backup Requirements
  • Veeam Backup Licensing
  • Downloading Veeam Backup
  • Installing Veeam Backup and Replication
Lesson 3 - Configuring and Backing up VMs with Veeam Backup

In this video you will learn how to connect Veeam Backup to vSphere, how to configure email notifications, and you’ll see how to properly utilize user roles. Plus, you will work hands-on to create and run a backup job, troubleshoot the backup job, and adjust backup jobs for various data transports.

  • Connecting Veeam Backup to vSphere
  • Configuring Email Notification
  • Understanding User Roles in Veeam Backup
  • Creating & Running a Backup Job
  • Reviewing Backup Job
  • Re-adjusting a Backup Job
  • Creating & Running a Backup Using Network Block Device Protocol
  • 10 Things You Must Know About Backup Jobs
Lesson 4 - Restoring Virtual Machines with Veeam Backup

The reason you are backing up your virtual infrastructure is so that you can restore it, right? In this video you will learn how to perform an image level and file level restore on a virtual machine to prove that those backups truly worked!

  • Restoring an Entire VM
  • Restoring VM Files Like VMDK or VMX
  • Restoring Individual VM Files
Lesson 5 - Using the Veeam File Level Restore Wizard

With Veeam Backup, a file-level restore of Linux virtual machines is performed with the Veeam File Level Restore client. To do this, you will see how to install the File Level Restore Client on another PC, Use VMware Player, import backup jobs, and restore a Linux file from a mounted virtual machine.

  • Difference Between File Level Restore Wizard and Backup Browser
  • Considerations: VMware Player, VM Inside VM
  • Importing Backups to Veeam Backup and FastSCP
  • Restoring Linux Files with the File Level Restore Wizard
Lesson 6 - Replicate Virtual Machines with Veeam Replication for Disaster Recovery

The biggest differentiator between Veeam Backup and other virtualization backup products is that Replication is included. In this video you will learn how to replicate your virtual infrastructure with Veeam Backup and Replication, using near CDP replication with VSS, to protect your virtual machines (and data) from disaster.

  • Why You Need Replication for Disaster Recovery
  • Creating a Replication Job
  • Failing Over VM Replicas
  • Undoing Failover
  • Configuring Near CDP Replication Using Veeam Backup and Replication
Lesson 7 - Managing Backup Servers with Veeam Enterprise Manager

When your infrastructure grows and you have multiple Veeam Backup Servers, Veeam Enterprise Manager is included with Veeam Backup to provide centralized web-based management of all backup servers. In this video you will learn how to install it, add backup servers, and view consolidated backup reports.

  • What is Veeam Enterprise Manager?
  • Installing Veeam Enterprise Manager
  • Adding Veeam Backup Servers to Enterprise Manager
  • Viewing Consolidated Backup Data with Enterprise Manager
Lesson 8 - Backing Up vCenter with Veeam Backup and VSS

In this video you will discover the special steps you need to take to backup a virtualized vCenter with VSS and how to preserve the functionality of that backup job if you are using DRS.

  • Problem: Why vCenter Requires a Special Backup with VSS
  • Solution: Creating a Special Backup Job for vCenter
  • Issues with VMotion and DRS Related to vCenter
  • Checking Backup Report
  • Setting Automation Level to Disabled in DRS Configuration
Lesson 9 - Sneak Peak: Veeam Backup 5.0 with SureBackup

VMware Data Recovery (VDR) – David Davis

Lesson 1 - Introduction to VMware Data Recovery (VDR)

In this video you will watch a demonstration of VMware Data Recovery (VDR) while you learn what’s new in the most recent version and see, first hand, what makes VDR so unique.

  • VMware Data Recovery (VDR) Overview
  • VMware Data Recovery Demo
  • Why Do I Need VMware Data Recovery?
  • VDR and vSphere Packaging
  • Benefits of Using VDR
  • New Features of VDR 1.2
  • Limitations of Using VDR
  • How Does VDR Work?
Lesson 2 - Installation and Initial Configuration of VMware Data Recovery (VDR)

In this video you will work hands-on to install VDR, perform initial configuration, and properly administer the new backup appliance.

  • Downloading VMware Data Recovery (VDR)
  • Installing the VDR Plug-in
  • Installing the VDR Appliance
  • Adding Storage Destinations
  • Powering Up VDR
  • Verifying Initial Configuration
  • Basic Administration of the VDR Appliance
Lesson 3 - Performing Backups and Restores with VMware Data Recovery (VDR)

In this video you will put VDR to the test by working hands-on to create backup jobs, back up virtual machines, perform recovery of deleted VMs, and report on backup status.

  • Creating Backup Jobs in VDR
  • Defining a Backup Window
  • Setting Backup Retention Policies
  • Grouping VMs for Backup
  • Creating and Running a Demo Backup Job
  • Performing Restore Using VDR
  • Restore Rehearsals
  • Monitoring and Reporting on Backup Jobs
  • Getting Backup Data on the Tape
Lesson 4 - Performing File Level Restores in Windows with VDR

While restoring an entire virtual machine can be easy, at some point you will just want to restore a file or folder from that VM. In this video you will learn how to perform file level restores of Windows VMs using standard and advanced restore modes.

  • Windows System Requirements to Perform File Level Restore (FLR)
  • Standard vs. Advanced Restore Mode
  • Performing File Level Restore in Windows with VDR
Lesson 5 - Performing File Level Restores in Linux with VDR

New in the latest version of VDR is the ability to perform Linux file-level restores. In this video you will work step-by-step to properly utilize Linux FLR.

  • Linux System Requirements to Perform File Level Restore (FLR)
  • Performing File Level Restore in Linux with VDR Using Command Line
Lesson 6 - VMware Data Recover (VDR) Best Practices

There are critical best practices that you need to implement in order to ensure VDR will be able to successfully backup and recover your virtual infrastructure, for the long term. In this video, you will learn the best practices of VDR, how to update VDR, monitor backup destinations for growth, and extend backup destinations.

  • VDR Maximums
  • How to Update VDR
  • Backing Up vCenter VM
  • Installing VMware Tools
  • Upgrading Virtual Hardware
  • Archiving Backups for Offsite Storage
  • Monitoring Backups Destination Growth
  • Extending Your Backup Destination
  • Improve Backup Performance
  • Creating a VDR Log Bundle for Support

PowerCLI – Hal Rottenberg

Lesson 1 - Reporting with PowerCLI

In this video you will walk step-by-step through the process of generating useful reports of your virtual environment using PowerCLI. Also, you will take a detailed look at the various ways to get data out of vSphere and vCenter. Plus, you will work hands-on to generate several reports that will be useful in managing your ever-changing virtual landscape.

  • A Special Note About ESXi
  • How to Create Great Reports - A Brief Overview
  • Who Is Your Audience?
  • What Are Your Requirements?
  • Requirements - Output Formats
  • Requirements - Report Destinations
  • Interpret the Data
  • Automate! If You Repeat It, Script It!
  • When Is PowerCLI Useful for Reporting?
  • Using PowerCLI to Create Reports
  • Report 1: Host Inventory
  • Using VMHostReport.ps1 Script
  • Report 2: VM Inventory
  • Using VMReport.ps1 Script
  • Sending an E-mail with VM Report
  • Report 3: Storage Utilization
  • Using Export-DSReport.ps1 Script
  • Using Search Datastore Function
Lesson 2 - Performance with PowerCLI

As virtualization matures within your organization, you will find it necessary to ""prove"" that the hypervisor layer is not at the heart of performance bottleneck issues in your environment. At other times during the planning and building stages of your virtualization projects, as well as the expansion of existing environments, you will need to understand how VM workloads affect each other, and the resources available to an entire cluster. In this video you will learn how to monitor performance in your vSphere environment using PowerCLI as the tool to gather the right data to keep your service levels where they need to be.

  • Introduction to Performance Monitoring
  • Vocabulary Lesson
  • Performance Manager
  • Counter Groups
  • Metrics & Counters
  • Rollup Types
  • Sampling Periods & Intervals
  • Statistics Collection Levels
  • The Get-Stat Cmdlet
  • Get-Stat Parameters
  • Working with the Get-Stat Cmdlet
  • Start and Finish Parameters for Get-Stat Cmdlet
  • Using Get-Stat Type Cmdlet
  • Exporting to CSV
  • Creating Charts with PowerBoots
Lesson 3 - Diagnostics with PowerCLI

PowerCLI can be used to great benefit in helping to simplify and manage complex changes to your virtual environment. In this video you will work hands-on with the most useful tools in the PowerCLI toolbox. You will learn how to utilize these tools to reduce your troubleshooting time and keep your environment running in peak condition.

  • Diagnostics & Troubleshooting with PowerCLI
  • Discovery: Working with Logs
  • Using Get-Log Cmdlet
  • ParameterSet: logBundleSet
  • Discovery: Comparing Tasks & Events
  • Discovery: Retrieve Tasks
  • Discovery: Configure Remote Syslog
  • ConfigMgmt: Get-Cmdlets
  • ConfigMgmt: Advanced Options
  • ConfigMgmt: Privileges, Roles, and Permission
  • ConfigMgmt: Authorization Cmdlets
  • ConfigMgmt: Host Profiles
  • Additional Resources

Certified Instruction

Certified Instructor David Davis

David Davis (VCP4, VCAP-DCA, vExpert, CCIE #9369)

David has been in the IT industry for over 18+ years. He has served as a server/network admin, IT manager, and independent contractor. Today, David is a full-time instructor for TrainSignal.com where he has created over 10 different IT training courses.

Additionally, he has written hundreds of IT articles on the Internet, written for Virtualization Review magazine, served as a judge at VMware product competitions, and spoke on virtualization at conferences in the USA, Canada, and Europe. David's "real-world" experience combined with his diversity of skills (Virtualization, Windows Server, & Cisco Networking) gives you a powerful learning resource that can't be matched.

Certified Instructor Hal Rottenberg

Hal Rottenberg (vExpert, Microsoft MVP: Windows PowerShell, 2009-2010)

Hal Rottenberg is a system engineer, Microsoft PowerShell MVP, and VMware vExpert living in Woodstock, Georgia. He has over thirteen years of experience in IT while working for such large enterprises as Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and The Home Depot. When it comes to IT, Hal’s passions are automation and virtualization.

He is well-known in sysadmin circles for co-hosting the PowerScripting Podcast, and heading up the PowerShellCommunity organization. He is also the author of a book titled "Managing VMware Infrastructure with PowerShell: TFM" published by SAPIEN Press in 2009.

Previous to his career as a PowerShell guru, Hal was heavily involved in the Jabber / XMPP instant messaging protocol community as a member of the Jabber Software Foundation (now called the XMPP Standards Foundation). He remains involved in that space to a lesser extent in his long-running capacity as webmaster for the Psi project, which is an extremely popular (average of 1,500 downloads a day) instant messaging client which works on the XMPP network.

When not being a major geek, Hal enjoys coaching his boys in soccer, and spending time with his lovely wife to whom he has been married since 1997.

Certified Instructor Rick Scherer

Rick Scherer (vExpert, VCDX, VCP)

Rick Scherer is a Sr. VCE Architect located in Southern California. Working with VMware virtualization products for over 7 years he has designed and deployed environments of all sizes.

Rick has deployed over 200 ESX hosts and over 6,000 virtual machines, including virtualizing business critical applications such as SAP, SQL and Exchange.

In 2009 he was awarded with the VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX) certification, a feat only shared with a select few around the world. You can contact Rick by visiting his website at www.vmwaretips.com.

Courses Instructed by Rick Scherer

Certified Instructor Eric Siebert

Eric Siebert (vExpert)

Eric Siebert is a 25-year IT veteran whose primary focus is VMware virtualization and Windows server administration.

He is one of the 300 vExperts named by VMware for 2009 & 2010, author of the books VI3 Implementation and Administration and Maximum vSphere and is a frequent TechTarget contributor.

In addition, he maintains vSphere-land.com a VMware information site.

Courses Instructed by Eric Siebert

Certified Instructor Sean Clark

Sean Clark (vExpert, VMware Certified Professional, Oracle Certified Associate DBA)

In the last ten years, Sean Clark has invested time as a programmer and certified Oracle DBA, as well as IT manager and security coordinator, but has devoted the last four years to designing and evangelizing virtualization solutions.

A VMware Certified Professional since 2006 and awarded the distinction of VMware vEXPERT in 2009 by VMware, Sean has the technical ability, strong communication skills and leadership skills necessary to help you innovate in this new virtual world.

He is a tireless educator and utilizes a variety of media to help illustrate the value of virtualization solutions.

Sean takes his role as "trusted advisor" very seriously, ensuring that the best information is available from vendors and from the virtualization community as a whole.

Courses Instructed by Sean Clark

FAQ

VMware vSphere 4 Training - FAQ

Am I qualified to take this course?
YES! If you are a complete beginner to VMware, have used previous versions of the software, or have some experience with VMware Server, you'll benefit from this in-depth course!
Do I need any special equipment to complete this training course?
NO All you need is a computer with Internet Explorer and a media player; however, working hands-on with VMware vSphere may enhance your training experience. You can download a free 60 day evaulation of VMware vSphere from www.vmware.com if you would like to use vSphere to follow along with the course demonstrations and scenarios.
Does this course prepare me to obtain my VCP certification in VMware vSphere?
YES! The information in this course is based on the exam objectives for the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) exam and is designed to be the best preparation resource available to help you pass the VCP exam.

Note: VMware requires you to attend one of their education courses before you can become a VMware Certified Professional (VCP). You can find the details of these requirements and the class options on VMware’s Education page.

VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1 - FAQ

Am I qualified to take this course?
YES! If you are a middle to upper level enterprise network administrator, and/or have taken our VMware vSphere Training course and have done hands-on work with vSphere, you’ll benefit from this in-depth course!
Do I need any special equipment to complete this training course?
NO! All you need is a computer with Internet Explorer and a media player; however, working hands-on with VMware vSphere may enhance your training experience. You can download a free 60 day evaulation of VMware vSphere from www.vmware.com if you would like to use vSphere to follow along with the course demonstrations.

VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 2 - FAQ

Am I qualified to take this course?
YES! If you are a middle to upper level enterprise network administrator, and/or have taken our VMware vSphere Training course or our VMware vSphere Pro Series Training Vol. 1, and have done hands-on work with vSphere, you’ll benefit from this in-depth course!
Do I need any special equipment to complete this training course?
NO! All you need is a computer with Internet Explorer and a media player; however, working hands-on with VMware vSphere may enhance your training experience. You can download a free 60 day evaluation of VMware vSphere from www.vmware.com if you would like to use vSphere to follow along with the course demonstrations.
"Loved your ESX Server training videos!"

Thanks to you, I secured a position with a huge insurance firm looking after their VI of 60+ hosts and 100s of guests.

Michael Reilly United Kingdom
"I was a new to virtualization when I bought your video... After watching this video I was able to setup a VMware ESX server..."

I purchased the VMware ESX Server course to improve hands on skills for a current job.

I was a new to virtualization when I bought your video. The intro to Virtualization was great.

Planning & Installing helped me learn how to select the right hardware. ESX Server Security is excellent on teaching the concepts of ESX Virtualization Security and the Virtual Networking Lab was outstanding on teaching me about Single-NIC, redundant & load balancing, and DMZ with router\firewall.

Richard Rosenzweig
"After watching the video, I can configure and install without any documentation..."

I have been tasked with taking care of all our IDC servers consolidation with VMware. I received training from VMware, but only with ESX 2.5.

Because I was familiar with TrainSignal Training Videos, I had to get my hands on the video. I upgraded my servers from 2.5 to 3.0x and the architect was different, so therefore I ran into a lot of issues.

I needed the training to enhance my skills with ESX installation and configuration, and the video interaction is very good.

After watching this video I was able to setup a VMware ESX server.

The training has helped me become more confident in configuring the server because the hands-on training is such a great tool. I don’t have to memorize or read alot of documents in order to do this. It is so easy with the help of watching someone configure and go through the process.

After watching the video, I can configure and install without any documentation and I’m aware of all the "gotchas".

Thank you,

Tai Nguyen
"The Executives were looking for someone to fill that position and their first choice was my name. I truly owe your training for my fast growth in the company..."

I took this course for improving my hands on skills for the current job. I like to improve them with initiation on my own rather than wait on company sponsored trainings.

I know this will help me in getting better jobs in the future. Education never goes to waste in my opinion and any money spent on education should be treated as an investment and not an expense.

It sure did help me as I implemented a few things I learnt through your course in my company. It got instant recognition in my company and I got more challenging work. In a short time it so happened that the manager moved on to a different job and left that post vacant.

The Executives were looking for someone to fill that position and their first choice was my name. I truly owe your training for my fast growth in the company.

I am not sure who all bought this software among my friends, but I have already recommended this software to many of my friends. Not just the software but also your site; I asked them to check out other stuff available too.

Viswanadh Tatavarthy
"I am very pleased with the content and the instructor."

I bought the Vmware ESX training CD and I am very pleased with the content and the instructor. I will definitely consider TrainSignal next time I need a training CD.

Brian Boyter
"David is by far the best instructor I’ve ever had."

I am taking your VMware vSphere video training course, and David is by far the best instructor I’ve ever had.

His no nonsense, straight to the point lecturing is an absolute breath of fresh air.

His clear and concise explanations show that he knows exactly what he’s talking about.

This course makes me want to use his training courses only...just wow!

Amnon Feiner Network Admin, Ladco Leasing, California
"The new feature set in ESX was explained very thoroughly with very few questions left unanswered..."

I purchased this course because I am looking to get certified on the VMware ESX server and to also give me more hands on skills. I have used your courses in the past and they seem to be very well put together.

The course for VMware ESX has put me closer to my goal. Has given me some very good experience on the look and feel before I did the implementation.

The new feature set in ESX was explained very thoroughly with very few questions left unanswered.

The instruction was put together very well and show a few tricks that you might not of known about otherwise.

Ron G Knox Senior Systems Engineer, MCP,MCSA,MCSE, Ice-O-Matic, www.iceomatic.com
"We recently setup a 2nd server and needed a refresh on the partitioning and install procedure – the training course helped us review this by walking through the process..."

I purchased this to refresh skills taken from a hands on course and to see if there were other things I could learn about the product. I did not purchase the product to complete a certification. I purchased it to offer a visual review of items we at times need to refresh on.

We recently setup a 2nd server and needed a refresh on the partitioning and install procedure – the training course helped us review this by walking through the process.

We have used it several times for this need and it has been of value and helped with what we expected it to.

The course has helped me with exactly what I had hoped, I have been able to review items that needed review and refresh my skills. I need to take more time and complete the entire course to compare the hands on course to the CD based course.

Thanks,

Quinn Fowers Manager, Information Technologies, FMC Technologies
"The course helped us better understand the hardware requirements for VMWare ESX server and how to better configure our virtual machines to improve performance..."

I purchased this course to mprove skills for the current job. Currently using VMWare ESX server, but not as proficient with it as we’d like to be.

The course helped us better understand the hardware requirements for VMWare ESX server and how to better configure our virtual machines to improve performance.

I rate the course four (4) our of five (5) stars. The TrainSignal ESX server course helped in the following ways:

1.) Helped us better evaluate hardware needs for virtual servers and virtual machines

2.) Helped us better configure virtual servers and machines to improve performance

3.) Enabled us to be more effective in planning our ESX environment

4.) Enabled us to be more effective in building and managing virtual machines.

Joshua Putnam Peskay Director of Information Technology, FUND FOR THE CITY OF NEW YORK, 121 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10013, www.fcny.org
"Because time was a factor I needed to learn the material in a short period and TrainSignal was able to do that..."

AMHC is looking at consolidating and configuring our environment utilizing a virtualization approach. TrainSignal is an excellent resource to learn the material the fastest.

Because time was a factor I needed to learn the material in a short period and TrainSignal was able to do that. The material is organized in a way that is easy to learn.

I also like the fact that the instructor provides you with additional websites to obtain information about the product. Having the notes is also helpful because I am able to print each chapter and document the important areas that the instructor highlights.

The instructor is right to the point and I like how the examples are real-world scenarios. Other trainings will elaborate on discussions and will sometimes include material that is not related to the training.

Jason Cyr
"I knew I could rely on TrainSignal to provide usable information as I’ve used your other CBT’s to assist with Windows server projects such as File Server and Active Directory..."

I purchased the VMware ESX server course to improve hands on skills in installing the system. After doing demo work with the ESX system I was left with questions and wanted to see how your TrainSignal instructors set it up and what tips I could gather through your videos.

I knew I could rely on TrainSignal to provide usable information as I’ve used your other CBT’s to assist with Windows server projects such as File Server and Active Directory.

I wanted information on 3 areas; ESX installation; Virtual Center; and Consolidated Backup. I studied primarily the Consolidated Backup module, I learned that it is not a GUI program as I had envisioned but rather an agent.

With your CBT I am learning to understand the concept of the agent and how to install it properly. I have been able to work on my servers and watch your video simultaneously to step thru the installation process.

I love having the ability to go back to the videos and find the chapter I’m looking for and review the procedures. Your CBT’s are replacing my reference manuals!

Michael Virnig IS Director, Mille Lacs County
"I took both your Microsoft and VMWare server classes which were very helpful in understanding virtualization and its capabilities..."

I purchased this course to have a quick, to the point course to give me hands on capabilities and clear up the obscurities.

I took both your Microsoft and VMWare server classes which were very helpful in understanding virtualization and its capabilities.

I took the ESX class to understand the scope and limitations of the ESX product and how to size server systems and applications. ESX is an expensive product and if I want to sell the price tag to the bean counters, I have to show how it will save money, time and still enhance productivity and security.

I would give this course 5 out of 5 stars. It took me to where I wanted to go technically.

Ken Grossman
"I would definitely recommend it to people who are trying to learn about ESX (and I have recommended it)..."

I bought the ESX CD’s because my company is using the product and there is not much out there in the book stores or online yet regarding ESX.

I also took the accelerated ESX training course through my company and I do intend to pursue certification but I have not done so yet.

I think the CD’s were well done although there a few differences between the CD content and the VMware courseware. I cannot give specific details but I remember thinking about it when I ran across them on the CD. So I would say that the course has helped me meet my goals for what I really got them for which was a general overview of ESX and its capabilities.

I would definitely recommend it to people who are trying to learn about ESX (and I have recommended it)

And as I mentioned, I thought the content was well presented and well done. To be honest, and it really doesn’t make much difference, I would have liked to see the product installed on a real server instead of on a virtual machine inside another vmware product.

There was not much wasted time at all on the video’s which were broken up well. All in all, I have been happy with the TrainSignal video’s I have bought. I think I purchased a DNS overview in the past and I might purchase some Cisco courseware in the near future.

William Cronin
"The course has allowed me to implement, manage, and support the product quickly with more with confidence..."

I purchased the course to get familiar with ESX due to implementing at work.

The course provided a quick way for me to get acclimated to ESX server. It allowed me to learn at my own pace while giving me the ability to review the material additional times when necessary, unlike a class.

I personally find the video format an effective addition to documentation and the lectures, examples, and scenarios assist in the understanding of the material. This course, like several other TrainSignal courses, has help me gain a solid and practical understanding of ESX server.

The course has allowed me to implement, manage, and support the product quickly with more with confidence.

David Reichenecker

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