VMWARE

You want all the files in the folder that contains the vmdk file. You need the vmx settings file, so you really must back up the entire folder not just the vmdk file.

.... Thinkpads_User

If you do not want to buy a backup product I would recommend Free Veeam this will make sure you get all the right files and it will compress the backup too.

I am currently backup the entire directory.  So, will that enable me to bring up the VM servers incase I have to rebuild the host server?

Yes, that should allow you to rebuild the host server.

But your guests are servers, and since you want to move them, you need to shut them down before moving them. Otherwise you need a commercial backup product.

Most people would not use VMware Player to host live servers, so that is why I suggest shutting down and copying them to a backup location.

... Thinkpads_User

I am not worried about the host server. I am worried about the VM servers on the host. If my host server crashes I want to be able to recover my VM servers.

So, if all my VM's are stored on the host server under C:\VMachines and I have that directory backed up.  

I should be able to bring those VM servers up on a different host?


I just started working in this environment and want to put some quick safe guards in place. Next week I want to get approval to buy some backup software.

@Comeon - Thanks and I was happy to help.

.... Thinkpads_User

Thank U for following through my thought process with me! Will work on getting those VMs off VMware player as well.