Item: VMware ESXi
Rating: 9
Author: Verified User

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

VMware ESXi is the basis of our virtual server infrastructure. We use it to run core services on the local network. We also use it to provide virtual workstations for our staff and for testing. It quickly provides additional services to our environment.

Pros and Cons

Virtualizes servers and workstations across many different platforms.
Provides a great way to setup labs to test new services.
Can easily piece out part of the infrastructure for different staff based on their roles.

Greater support for newer OS's on previous major version of VMware ESXi.
Provide easier upgrade method for vCenter appliance deployed in HA mode.
Fix recurring issues. Often hangs or lose functionality from filled up ramdisk.

Return on Investment

Lowered hardware cost.
Excellent setup for remote offices.
Increased efficiency to get new systems up and running.

Alternatives Considered

Hyper-V

VMware ESXi is a lot more robust and resilient than MS Hyper-V.
However, Hyper-V is more convenient and economical because it comes with Windows Server.

Key Insights

Do you think VMware ESXi delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with VMware ESXi's feature set?

Yes

Did VMware ESXi live up to sales and marketing promises?

I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process

Did implementation of VMware ESXi go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy VMware ESXi again?

Yes

Other Software Used

vSphere, Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365), Veeam Backup & Replication

Likelihood to Recommend

VMware ESXi is well suited anywhere you need to have services up and running quickly. Once set up, the entire hardware later is removed when standing up new servers and workstations. This immensely cuts down the time needed to bring up a new service. It also makes it quick and easy to segment new systems in their own networks.

Cost is the only scenario where it may not be appropriate. You have to invest in high performant hardware with a lot of resources.

Best solution for your virtual infrastructure environment

Overall Satisfaction with VMware ESXi