Cloning a running virtual machine, is it possible?

[projectja]

Hi,

Before launching this question, I have been trying to find the answer and to clear myself about this question, the fact is it is not clear for me yet.

I would like to know if technically it is possible to clone a running virutal machine and what are the disadvantages -if there are- of doing with a running vm. Maybe it is better or necesary to shutdown the mv to be cloned.

I have Vcenter 5. I dont know for clone function there is differences between versions of vmware and have been improved in this sense.

I would thanks your help.

Best regards,

John

[MauroBonder · Accepted solution]

yes you can clone virtual machine running, you need have vcenter to do it.

if you clone with virtual machine powered off, will complete more fast than running.

[projectja]

Thank you ver much. I was not sure whether I was doing the right thing, I thought there could be some problems when making clones on the fly. If it is a secure way to do it, perfect.