VDP Question

[xzxvkv]

Hi, We are running vSphere 5.0 still.  I am interested in upgrading to 5.1 and make a use of the VDP.  If our backup server is out side of the VM environment, can I still implement it?

The backup server is Windows 2008.  Do I need to purchase any additional license? like a vSphere Replication OVF Appliance?

[abhilashhb]

You need vSphere Enterprise Plus license on your ESXi to leverage VDP. For more info, Read the FAQ's

VMware KB: vSphere Data Protection (VDP) FAQ

[xzxvkv]

Thanks for the info.  We have vSphere Essential Plus.  I'll check if we are covered.  How is the VDP running OK?  Should we look into other virtual backup & restore solutions as well?  If the Essential Plus covers, and no additional cost for the VDP,  it's worth to look into it, I think.

[abhilashhb]

Please log into your vCenter/Host, select the host, Click on configuration tab and under software you will see licensed fetures. There you will see vSphere data protection. Which means your license covers it and you have already paid for it. As it comes free with Enterprise plus its worth to use it and see if it gives the functionality you need.

[smitchuson]

I'm trying to get vDP working in our environment and I'm having a couple of hurdles (basically testing the file restore functionality) but otherwise it seems to work really well and it's de-duplication is pretty good.

Also it looks like from http://www.vmware.com/products/vsphere/compare.html This link you are covered in Essentials Plus as well as vDR (data replication) which I love for disaster recovery.