This is a very robust website, and product for that matter. I have *some* experience with vmware but I want to know, if I was starting from day 1 with vmware, where should I start? What resource do I begin with, and build on from there? There are many directions to go with from what I see on this website I may want a certification in the future, but for now I want to set a solid foundation to grow from and build into real world solutions.
Thank you for the direction.
Welcome to the Community - I would start with the training that is offered for the VCA certification - it is a 3 hour online self paced class that covers the basics - (VCA-DCV) VCA-Data Center Virtualization - there are also VCA course for Desktop Virtualization and Cloud computing -
Start by visiting http://www.vmwarelearning.com
There are a lot of variety of free videos there. I'd start with all the vSphere ones and then explore the others.
You may also want to investigate building a home lab using Workstation or "white boxes" (build hardware and install ESXi on it.
My hopes are to in the future have a machine here at home that is powerful enough to run a variety of different VMs so I can make that my virtual lab to learn new technologies. Thank you for the links folks.
Don't forget that there are Hands-on Labs as well. This is a free resource where you can get some guided practical experience.