Learning ESXi - Tutorials & Book Recommendations

[michaeltz]

Hi,

I'm a .NET developer/architect but I will be responsible for setting up and maintaining an ESXi server on a small account.  I've always been interested in learning more about vmWARE so this is really as an opportunity for me to expand my knowledge.

Are there any good step-by-step tutorials on setting up and configuring a server for beginners?

Would you recommend any of the following books for a beginner that would be maintaining 2 ESXi servers (QA and Production)?

Mastering VMware vSphere 4

http://www.amazon.com/Mastering-VMware-vSphere-Computer-Tech/dp/0470481382/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

VMware ESX and ESXi in the Enterprise: Planning Deployment of Virtualization Servers (2nd Edition)

http://www.amazon.com/VMware-ESX-ESXi-Enterprise-Virtualization/dp/0137058977/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=...

Thank you,

Michael T

[jonathanp · Accepted solution]

You can always start by all the documentation on the VMware website itself, there is a lot of information on how to install, configure already there.

In another hand you can have a look at this book... It was recommended to us, and seem to be pretty complete.

VMware ESXi 4.1: Planning, Implementation, and Security by Dave Mishchenko

http://www.amazon.com/VMware-ESXi-Planning-Implementation-Security/dp/1435454952

Regards

Jonathan

[mittim12]

VMware was also offering a free ESXi training class.   Check here for more details,  http://blogs.vmware.com/esxi/2011/04/become-a-true-esxi-expert-with-the-new-free-vmware-elearning-co...

[michaeltz]

Jonathan,

Thank you for the info.  I did see that book but there were no reviews.

Did you feel it would be good for a beginner maintaining a coupe of servers or geared towards a virtualization expert?

Thank you,

Michael

[michaeltz]

mittim12,

Thank you for the training course info. Definitely something I'll look into.

Michael

[gwilmington]

If you take that free training and take their survey after you get done, they will send you a free ecopy of Dave's book.  I'm finishing up reading Scott Lowe's book and it's been very educational.  I also just picked up the HA Deepdive from Duncan Epping as well but that's a much more indepth book. 

[petedr]

There are definitely some good books out there, but as posted starting with the VMware docs and other information may give you a good basis to start from.