Item: IBM Cloud for VMware Solutions
Rating: 8
Author: Verified User

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

vSphere on IBM cloud is being utilized to host and manage a sub section of VMs utilized for specific internal applications. It is being used only by the IT department, and it allows us to focus more on the applications themselves rather than worrying about the physical infrastructure for these critical apps.

Pros and Cons

The performance is top notch. Our on-prem environment was always suffering from lag and general sluggishness. With IBM running everything, it's much smoother.
It's always up to date. Our previous environment was always lacking the latest updates and security features. Our audit department enjoys having the peace of mind that everything is up to date.
They handle the security of the environment. It allows our security team to focus on higher priority issues. They dont have to worry about making sure our systems are secured.

I wish it were a bit easier to manage user access.
The initial configuration process could be a bit more streamlined.

Return on Investment

It has a positive impact on the cost required to maintain our vSphere environment by allowing us to get rid of our vsphere hardware and not worry about maintenance either.
There have been very few negatives, but one would definitely be the open-ended cost associated with cloud products in general.

Alternatives Considered

Microsoft Azure

We selected VMware over Azure due to the fact that it was already familiar and still offered the same cloud capabilities that Azure would have gained us. This allowed us to keep using the same interface and not have to relearn everything from start to finish with a new product.

Support Rating

We have had very few instances where we needed to reach out for support, but each time we have the response has been quick. The techs have been knowledgeable and resolved issues in a timely manner.

Other Software Used

VMware vCenter Server, Microsoft Application Virtualization, Windows Server

Likelihood to Recommend

Scenarios where VMware vSphere on IBM Cloud is well suited for any companies that don't want to have to worry about the physical side of everything. If you are already looking to virtualization, then why not get rid of the physical infrastructure running the vSphere portion as well. A less appropriate scenario would be in the case of our SCADA systems. Due to the nature of these systems, we still prefer to keep the management and vSphere on prem.

Usability

Everything is very clearly laid out. Being familiar with vSphere already, it was a quick transition over to the IBM environment. This allowed us to spend less time on the implementation phase and move quickly to actually utilizing the system on a day to day basis. Also, the performance is very good. No lagginess to the website like our previous on-prem environment.

Our pleasant experience with vsphere cloud

Overall Satisfaction with VMware vSphere on IBM Cloud