Dell EqualLogic Virtual Storage Manager (VSM) for VMware is an essential tool for IT administrators managing EqualLogic storage within a VMware vSphere environment. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of VSM, its capabilities, and configuration options for optimizing storage management workflows.
Overview of Dell EqualLogic Virtual Storage Manager (VSM)
VSM is designed as a virtual appliance integrated with VMware vCenter, enabling streamlined management of EqualLogic groups and seamless coordination of data protection operations. It supports both the VMware vSphere Client for older versions and the more recent vSphere Web Client, serving as a web-based interface for managing EqualLogic storage.
VSM Versions and VMware Compatibility
There are two primary versions of VSM tailored to different VMware vSphere environments:
1. **Dell Virtual Storage Manager for VMware v4.0.2**:
– Compatible with VMware vCenter Server versions 5.1 and 5.5, and ESX Server versions 5.0, 5.1, and 5.5.
– Acts as a VASA provider to communicate storage capabilities.
2. **Dell Virtual Storage Manager for VMware v4.5.0 EPA**:
– Supports vSphere 6.0 and introduces VMware Virtual Volumes (VVOLs) support.
– Compatible with VMware vCenter Server 5.5 and 6.0 and ESX Server 5.1, 5.5, and 6.0.
– Offers both VASA 1.0 and VASA 2.0 capabilities to enhance storage awareness and management.
Key Features and Uses of VSM
Implementing VSM can significantly enhance storage management in several scenarios:
Storage Provisioning and Management
VSM allows administrators to efficiently provision, expand, and delete EqualLogic datastores directly from the vCenter Server interface. It supports managing multiple EqualLogic groups and integrates with other VSM instances for comprehensive storage management.
Alarm and Event Management
The integration of additional alarm capabilities within vCenter Server offers improved monitoring and management of storage operations, ensuring proactive responses to potential issues.
Data Protection with VSM Smart Copies and Replication
Previously known as Auto-Snapshot Manager/VMware, VSM enables hypervisor-level consistent snapshots, clones, and replicas for robust data protection and disaster recovery.
Integration with VMware Technologies
– **VMware Virtual Volumes**: The VASA 2.0 provider is crucial for utilizing VVOLs, which improve storage management by aligning it with VM-level operations.
– **VMware Site Recovery Manager (SRM) Support**: In environments with multiple storage groups per site, VSM facilitates effective management by enabling a centralized pairing to handle all group interactions.
Deployment Considerations
Deploying VSM becomes crucial for environments relying on VMware VVOLs and SRM, as it enhances storage provisioning, management, and recovery capabilities, ensuring seamless integration with VMware technologies.
For further information on installation and configuration, refer to the Dell EqualLogic and VMware documentation. These resources provide comprehensive guidance on optimizing VSM for enterprise environments.