Upgrading from Free ESXI (to paid for version)

[philtomo]

First of all apologies if this is in the wrong section

We are currently running Vsphere Client v.5.1.0 build
786111 and VMware v5.1.0 build 1065491

I would like to upgrade this from the free version for
increased functionality.

The main reason I would be looking to upgrade these is to
work with Veeam Backup solution as i`m aware that this will not work with my
current version.

I have been researching the various versions and I think
"VMware Vsphere essentials kit" will be suitable for my needs.

is this correct?

[vNEX]

Hi,

for backup solution to working with ESXi host you need "unrestricted" API otherwise you are only allowed for read-only API operations with FREE edition.

So any paid version of vSphere hypervisor will accomplish this requirement.

And yes most suitable/cheapest option would be to by VMware vSphere Essentials Kit:

http://store.vmware.com/store/vmwde/en_IE/cat/categoryID.66680900&src=eBIZ_StoreHome_Featured_Essent...

Regards,

P.

[ch1ta]

Yes, Veeam won't work with free ESX(i), as it has certain Data Protection API blocked preventing Veeam from backing up/replicating virtual machines. According to this sticky FAQ, the minimum VMware licensing required by Veeam is VMware Essentials, indeed.

Cheers.