End-to-End Network QoS for vSphere 5.1 with Cisco UCS and Nexus

This article builds upon the white papers and blogs that are available (listed below) and provides a VCDX-style guide to design decisions that need to be considered for End-to-End Network Quality of Service for vSphere 5.1 with the Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) and Cisco Nexus switches. Continue reading End-to-End Network QoS for vSphere 5.1 with Cisco UCS and Nexus

Tech101 – VMware vSphere ESXi

During my VCDX journey, I searched long and hard for a diagram that showed the components of VMware vSphere ESXi in a “big picture” to enhance my understanding.  The closest I could find was in the VMware vSphere: Optimise and Scale training manual (page 66 – Image also here Section 4.1), but it lacked detail.  So I collated all that I could find into this diagram, which is a very handy one to have when troubleshooting vSphere issues. (#VCDX HINT, HINT!) Continue reading Tech101 – VMware vSphere ESXi

VCDX – Think like a Panelist

The Panelists are trained to ask questions without giving the answer away.  When you first hear the question, they will appear “vague” and “soft”.  So you need to train yourself to look beyond the generic question and extrapolate the answer from the possibilities contained within.  This includes clarifying the question with the Panel and demonstrating your knowledge.  Always be mindful of point scoring opportunities.  If you do not know the answer, try working through the question out loud and arrive at your answer dynamically.  This proves that you can think on your feet. Continue reading VCDX – Think like a Panelist

EMC FAST-VP & PowerPath/VE with Storage DRS & Storage I/O Control

This article builds upon the white papers and blogs that are available (listed below).  It took me a long time to understand how these mechanisms work together, since there was no single document (that I could find) describing their integration and correct usage; which left experimentation in my Pre-Production environment.  This post is an attempt to correct that knowledge gap. Continue reading EMC FAST-VP & PowerPath/VE with Storage DRS & Storage I/O Control