We have decided we are going to move to SRM 5 as it is ticking all the boxes for us. We are currently using ESXi 4.1 and I am wondering if we can use SRM 5 with our current configuration or do we need to implement vSphere 5 first?
Unfortunately SRM 5 is not compatible with vCenter 4.1. You will have to upgrade first.
Dave,
SRM 5 does require vSphere 5 and ESXi 5 in order to work. I'll warn you that its a complicated beast if you want to use many of the features, not to mention costly if not done right. You should look at a 3rd party for hosting your backup site, they'll have the gear, knowledge and support to implement the SRM product.
If you choose to go forward with it, you'll love the abilities.
At vmworld I believe they said vCenter 5 is a requirement but esx 4.x would be supported. Hard to confirm since the SRM docs aren't out yet.
Thanks guys, I guess I will just have to wait until the documentation is released to find my answer. Do you recomment any SRM 5 books that would be worth getting?
The only book for SRM 5 I know about has not been released yet.
http://www.amazon.com/Administering-VMware-Recovery-Manager-Technology/dp/0321799925
You can download some sample chapters here.
It is a VMware press book, so I presume it will be good.
A VMware partner presentation I've been reading today suggests SRM v5 supports vSphere 4 and 5, but only vCenter 5.