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VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025: Illuminating the Path to Cloud Excellence!

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 15 minutes read

In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where lights illuminate the night sky, technology enthusiasts and visionaries will gather for VMware Explore 2025 – an event that promises to be a beacon of innovation. This year’s conference will not only showcase the latest advancements in cloud computing and VMware Cloud Foundation, but also inspire attendees to embrace the transformative power of digital technologies.

As we prepare for this remarkable gathering, expect to witness a fusion of cutting-edge solutions and entertainment. VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025 aims to provide a platform where industry experts share their insights on shaping the future of cloud infrastructure. From cloud security strategies to the latest developments in edge computing, every presentation is tailored to equip businesses with the tools needed for sustainable growth.

Be part of this illuminating experience and discover how VMware’s vision aligns with your own digital aspirations. Network with peers, learn from industry leaders, and explore the city that never sleeps during the day—all while gaining valuable insights into cloud technologies.

Welcome to a journey where knowledge meets excitement at VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025!

Explore 2025 Registration

Pricing Options:

Attending the highly anticipated VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025 doesn’t have to break the bank. The event offers a range of pricing options to cater to various budgets and levels of participation:

  • Full Event: Secure your spot early and enjoy a discounted rate. These tickets are ideal for those who want to maximize savings while ensuring their place at the conference. (Price: $1795, onsite rate $2,195)
  • Essentials: $1,195 – Get almost everything from what the Full Event pass has minus, Sessions & Labs Scheduling, Certification Exam, The Party, Events Meals, Explore Backpack and T-Shirt.
  • Meetings+: $695 This pass is meant for customers that are only interested in the General Session, The Meeting Center, The Hub.

Registration Benefits:

  • Access to world-class keynote speakers and industry thought leaders.
  • In-depth workshops and technical sessions covering cloud management, security, and more.
  • Networking opportunities with peers and potential business partners.
  • Exclusive event merchandise and digital resources post-event.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in your professional development while exploring the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Register now and secure your place at VMware Explore 2025!

Hands-On Labs (HOL) and Their Impact & Experience’s

One of the most exciting aspects of attending VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025 is the opportunity to engage in hands-on labs (HOL), which offer a practical, immersive learning experience. These labs are designed to empower end users and administrators by providing them with a chance to experiment with new VMware solutions in a controlled environment.

Why Hands-On Labs Matter:

  • Practical Application: HOL allows attendees to apply theoretical knowledge gained from presentations and discussions. By actively working with VMware technologies, participants gain a deeper understanding of their capabilities and limitations.
  • Risk-Free Experimentation: In a controlled lab setting, administrators can test new configurations, deploy virtual machines, or explore advanced features without impacting production environments. This risk-free environment encourages experimentation and innovation.
  • Skill Enhancement: These labs are tailored to cover various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Beginners can grasp fundamental concepts, while experienced professionals can delve into complex scenarios, ensuring everyone benefits.
  • Realistic Scenarios: VMware Explore often recreates real-world use cases, enabling administrators to simulate enterprise environments. This helps them understand how to apply VMware solutions in practical situations, enhancing their problem-solving skills.

Benefits for End Users and Administrators:

  • Enhanced Learning Experience: Hands-on labs provide an interactive learning curve, making it easier for attendees to retain information. By doing, they learn more effectively than through passive listening.
  • Productivity Boost: Administrators can gain hands-on experience with the latest VMware products, enabling them to implement new solutions faster and more efficiently upon returning to their organizations.
  • Community Engagement: HOL sessions often foster discussions among attendees, allowing them to share insights, ask questions, and learn from peers. This collaborative environment expands their network and knowledge base.
  • Staying Ahead of the Curve: VMware Explore introduces new technologies and best practices. By participating in these labs, administrators stay informed about industry trends and can offer innovative solutions to their organizations.

What to Expect at VMware Explore 2025 HOL:

  • Diverse Topics: Labs will cover a wide range of subjects, including VMware Cloud Foundation 5.x, vSphere Foundation, NSX networking, vSAN, and more. Each lab will provide step-by-step guidance and practical exercises.
  • Expert Mentors: VMware’s subject matter experts (SMEs) will be on hand to assist participants, answer questions, and offer valuable insights during the hands-on sessions.
  • Interactive Workshops: Some HOL sessions might include interactive workshops where attendees work in pairs or small groups, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
  • Post-Lab Support: After completing a lab, participants can access online resources, documentation, and forums for further learning and troubleshooting.

Attending VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025 and actively participating in the hands-on labs is an investment in your professional growth as an end user or administrator. It offers a unique opportunity to learn, experiment, and connect with industry experts, ultimately benefiting both personal development and organizational success.

Certifications: Maximizing Your Investment

Attending VMware Explore Las Vegas 2025 offers not only valuable learning experiences but also provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your credentials through certifications. Let’s dive into how this event can benefit you financially and professionally, especially regarding exam preparation and retakes.

Certifications at Your Fingertips:

  • Convenient Exam Opportunities: During VMware Explore, there are dedicated certification exam sessions where you can sit for various VMware exams right after completing relevant training on hands-on labs. This streamlined process saves time and minimizes the hassle of scheduling exams separately.
  • Wide Range of Certifications: From VMware Cloud Foundation (VCP-VCF), VMware vSphere Foundation (VCP-VVF), to VCP and VCAP’s ranging from NSX networking and Cloud on VMware solutions, a variety of certifications are available, catering to different career paths and skill levels. You can choose the most relevant credential for your goals.

Benefits of Passing Exams at VMware Explore:

  • Cost Savings: By passing exams during the event, you avoid the expense of taking them separately elsewhere. Also a benefit of the Full Event Pass you get a complimentary exam voucher and during the event certifications are half off, discounted price. The cost of attending VMware Explore includes access to certification exams, making it a cost-effective way to gain qualifications.
  • Retake Privileges: In many cases, if you don’t pass an exam on your first attempt, you have the advantage of retaking it during the event. This flexibility is valuable as it allows you to strengthen your understanding and improve your chances of success without additional fees.
  • Instant Feedback: After taking the exam, you often receive immediate results, feedback, and score breakdowns. This instant feedback helps identify areas for improvement, allowing you to focus on specific topics before retaking the exam.

Long-Term Advantages:

  • Enhanced Career Prospects: VMware certifications hold significant weight in the industry and are recognized globally. Obtaining these credentials can boost your employability, open doors to new career opportunities, and potentially lead to higher salaries.
  • Continuous Learning: VMware Explore encourages a culture of continuous learning. By attending regular events and updating your certifications, you stay current with the latest technologies, ensuring your skills remain market-relevant.
  • Community Engagement: The certification process often involves interacting with peers and industry experts. Building these connections can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorships, or even job opportunities.

Strategizing Your Success:

  • Preparation is Key: Before attending VMware Explore, ensure you have a solid foundation in the relevant areas. Review study materials, participate in HOL sessions, and consider joining preparation groups or forums to share insights.
  • Time Management: Plan your schedule during the event to allocate sufficient time for exam preparation and retakes if needed. Prioritize exams based on your career goals and the time required to study for each.
  • Post-Exam Support: After passing (or retaking) an exam, take advantage of post-exam resources, such as review materials and support forums, to reinforce your understanding and knowledge retention.

By strategically approaching VMware Explore 2025 with a certification focus, you can maximize the event’s benefits, save costs, and advance your career prospects simultaneously. It’s a win-win situation that demonstrates VMware’s commitment to empowering professionals through continuous learning and development.

Product Related Information / Broadcom’s Vision:

Hock Tan began by highlighting VMware by Broadcom’s rich history and its role in revolutionizing virtualization and cloud computing.

At VMware Explore 2024, the company’s CEO, Hock Tan, took the stage to present a vision for the future of the company and reassure customers about its commitment to innovation and their success.

He acknowledged the company’s impressive track record of innovation, including recent innovations like VMware Cloud Foundation 9 and many other updates within Private AI and business operations, which have expanded VMware’s capabilities in areas like cloud management and multi-cloud.

Tan’s key messages from the general session and explore how VMware is positioning itself for the future while maintaining a strong focus on its customers’ needs. Along with announcing the large community that backs VMware – VMUG and VMware vExperts.

Meeting that One Person:

Attending an event like VMware Explore can be a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded professionals from various sectors, all united by their passion for cloud computing and virtualization.

VMware Explore 2024 was an absolute blast. It was great to connect with many outstanding individuals, just interacting and sharing experiences with fellow tech enthusiasts is always an inspiring time, filled with passion and energy

Connecting with fellow tech enthusiasts offers several benefits:

  • Knowledge Exchange: Engaging with people from various backgrounds and experiences provides opportunities to learn different perspectives, best practices, and innovative ideas related to cloud computing, virtualization, and beyond.
  • Networking Opportunities: Building relationships with like-minded professionals can lead to future collaborations, mentorships, or even business partnerships. These connections often become valuable resources throughout your career.
  • Inspiration and Motivation: Interacting with individuals who are passionate about technology can be incredibly inspiring. Their enthusiasm and dedication can ignite your own passion, motivate you to explore new possibilities, and push the boundaries of what you thought was achievable.
  • Community Building: Events like VMware Explore contribute to a global tech community. These gatherings strengthen this community by fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and encouraging collaboration. It’s a reminder that we’re all part of something bigger, working together to shape the future of technology.
  • Personal Growth: Stepping out of your comfort zone and engaging in conversations with strangers can boost your confidence, improve communication skills, and enhance your ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Remember, building connections is a two-way street. Being genuine, show interest in others, and offer value wherever possible. The right person could be anyone, and by putting yourself out there, you increase your chances of meeting that one individual who will make a significant impact on your career or personal growth.

So, it’s no wonder that VMware Explore 2024 left a lasting impression and inspired many. Keep nurturing these connections, stay open to new ideas, and let the energy and passion continue to drive your tech journey!

The Most Valuable Session(s):

The most valuable sessions for me were ‘Shaping the Future of Cloud and AI Innovation’ and learning how to leverage VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) and Private AI Foundation to enable organizations to implement a private AI ecosystem. This includes utilizing CPUs to run AI language model (LLM) workloads, not just relying on GPUs.

This knowledge has empowered me to make strategic decisions for my organization and the customers I support, and it has provided me with a deep understanding of what is involved in hosting and providing your own private AI solution on VCF.

Shaping The Future Of Cloud And AI Innovation [GEN2495LV]

As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of cloud and artificial intelligence (AI), it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. In this thought-provoking session, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in cloud and AI innovation, and discuss how they will shape the future of our industry.

What’s This General Session All About?

Join us as we delve into the exciting world of cloud and AI, exploring topics such as:

  • Cloud-Native Applications: Learn about the latest trends and best practices for building cloud-native applications that are scalable, secure, and highly available.
  • AI-Driven Innovation: Discover how AI is transforming industries and driving innovation, from natural language processing to computer vision and beyond.
  • Edge Computing: Understand the importance of edge computing in today’s IoT-enabled world and learn about the latest advancements in this rapidly evolving space.

AI Without GPUs: Using Your Existing CPU Resources To Run AI Workloads [INVB2189LV]

As AI adoption continues to grow, the need for powerful processing capabilities becomes increasingly important. Traditionally, this has meant relying on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) or specialized hardware like TPUs or FPGAs. However, what if you could harness your existing Central Processing Unit (CPU) resources to run AI workloads? In this session, we’ll explore the possibilities and limitations of running AI without GPUs.

What’s This Session All About?

Join us as we delve into the world of CPU-based AI processing. You’ll learn about:

  • CPU-Accelerated AI: Discover how CPUs can be used to accelerate AI workloads, such as machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
  • Best Practices for Optimizing CPU-Based AI: Learn strategies for optimizing your CPU-based AI workloads, including data type selection, kernel optimization, and memory management.

Community Events:

Community events and leadership receptions like the one from VMware Explore 2024, play a pivotal role in shaping one’s journey within the tech industry. These gatherings offer a myriad of benefits, fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and inspiring growth. Here’s why:

  1. Networking Opportunities: Such events bring together professionals from various sectors and backgrounds. They provide a unique platform for individuals to expand their network, meet potential mentors, collaborators, or even future employers. Face-to-face interactions often leave a lasting impression, leading to meaningful relationships that can open doors to new opportunities.
  2. Knowledge Transfer: Tech events are hotspots for knowledge sharing. Presentations, workshops, and panel discussions offer insights into the latest technologies, best practices, and industry trends. Attendees gain access to expertise from leaders in the field, enabling them to stay ahead of the curve or solve complex problems they encounter in their work.
  3. Career Growth: For early-stage professionals or those seeking a career shift, community events can be instrumental. They offer exposure to diverse roles and opportunities within the tech industry. Mentorships initiated at such events can guide individuals through their career paths, provide advice on skill development, and open doors to new possibilities.
  4. Building a Support System: The tech journey can be isolating, especially for remote workers or those in niche fields. Community events create a sense of belonging by bringing together people who share similar passions. This support system can offer encouragement, challenge one another’s ideas, and provide a safe space for open dialogue.
  5. Inspiring Innovation: Interacting with peers from different organizations sparks creativity and innovation. It allows you to see how others are tackling challenges, leading to new perspectives and potential solutions. These exchanges can inspire individuals to think outside the box and approach their work from fresh angles.
  6. Learning from Peers: Sometimes, the best learning occurs when professionals share their experiences and struggles. Community events provide a safe environment for peer-to-peer learning, where individuals can discuss challenges, exchange war stories, and gain insights into how others have navigated similar situations.
  7. Brand and Company Exposure: For tech companies, these events serve as a platform to showcase their products, services, and company culture. They attract potential talent, foster brand awareness, and build a positive employer reputation. Leadership receptions in particular can facilitate direct interactions between company representatives and interested individuals.

In essence, community events and leadership receptions are vital for personal and professional growth within the tech realm. They bridge the gap between learning, networking, and applying knowledge to real-world challenges, ultimately contributing to a thriving tech ecosystem.

Why VMware Explore 2025 in Las Vegas is a Must-Attend Event

VMware Explore 2025, taking place in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, promises to be an extraordinary gathering of tech enthusiasts, innovators, and industry leaders. Here’s why you should consider making it a priority:

  • Tech Innovation Hub: Las Vegas serves as a global hub for innovation, and VMware Explore leverages this by showcasing cutting-edge technologies, trends, and advancements in cloud computing, AI, security, and more.
  • Networking Paradise: The event brings together a diverse range of professionals from around the world, offering unparalleled networking opportunities. You’ll connect with peers, mentors, and potential partners, fostering relationships that can shape your tech journey.
  • Knowledge Exchange: With insightful keynotes, workshops, and panel discussions, VMware Explore 2025 is a knowledge hub. You’ll gain access to industry experts sharing their insights, best practices, and real-world experiences, empowering you with valuable takeaways.
  • Inspirational Stories: Hear from influential speakers who have navigated the tech landscape successfully. Their inspiring journeys and visionary ideas can ignite your creativity and motivate you to push boundaries in your own career.
  • Fun and Engagement: Beyond learning, VMware Explore offers a unique blend of social activities, entertainment, and networking events and not to forget but The Party, last year Jimmy Eats World played at Explore. Las Vegas provides an energetic backdrop for building connections while enjoying the city’s vibrant culture.

In summary, VMware Explore 2025 is not just an event; it’s an immersive experience that combines learning, networking, and inspiration. Attending will equip you with valuable insights, expand your professional network, and leave you energized and ready to tackle tech challenges head-on.

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Hardware Reviews

Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 – Storage Upgrade

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 3 minutes read

A Powerful Workhorse for Data-Intensive Workloads

In the world of data centers, where performance and efficiency are paramount, Dell Technologies has introduced the PowerEdge R740xd2 server—a robust machine designed to handle the most demanding computing tasks. This server is a force to be reckoned with, offering unparalleled processing power, advanced scalability, and enhanced security features. That is why I upgraded from a Dell PowerEdge R740XD to the XD2, as well running TrueNAS Scale! Let’s dive into what makes this hardware a standout choice for businesses seeking to optimize their data infrastructure.

Key Features:

1. Performance Boost:

The R740xd2 is equipped with the latest Intel Xeon Scalable processors, delivering up to 48 cores per CPU. This massive processing power enables it to effortlessly handle large-scale computing, making it ideal for data-intensive applications such as machine learning, high-performance computing (HPC), and complex simulations. With support for up to 2 TB of memory, this server ensures lightning-fast data access and processing speeds.

2. Scalability and Flexibility:

One of the standout features of the PowerEdge R740xd2 is its modular design, allowing for easy expansion and customization. The server supports various configuration options, including different CPU models, multiple storage drives, and a wide range of peripheral devices. This flexibility ensures businesses can tailor their servers to specific needs, accommodating future growth without significant disruptions.

3. Enhanced Storage Capabilities:

Data centers rely on robust storage solutions, and the R740xd2 does not disappoint. It offers a variety of storage options, including hot-plug NVMe SSDs, SAS drives, and M.2 slots for additional flexibility. With support for up to eight internal hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs), this server can deliver high throughput and low latency, ensuring fast data retrieval and improved performance.

4. Security at Every Level:

Dell has implemented several security measures in the R740xd2 to protect sensitive data. The server includes a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 for hardware-level security, as well as support for Dell Data Guard for advanced data protection and encryption. Additionally, the R740xd2 is compatible with various security protocols and offers remote management capabilities, ensuring your data remains secure even in remote deployments.

5. Efficient Design:

Despite its powerful capabilities, the PowerEdge R740xd2 is designed with energy efficiency in mind. Dell has incorporated advanced power management features, allowing the server to operate at optimal levels while minimizing power consumption. This not only reduces operational costs but also contributes to a more sustainable data center environment.

Use Cases:

  • AI and Machine Learning: The R740xd2’s processing prowess makes it an ideal platform for training and deploying AI models, enabling businesses to stay ahead in the era of intelligent computing.
  • Data Analytics: With its ability to handle vast amounts of data, this server is perfect for organizations conducting complex analytics, helping them gain valuable insights from their data repositories.
  • Cloud Services: The scalability and performance of the R740xd2 make it a strong candidate for building and hosting cloud infrastructure, enabling businesses to deliver services at scale.

Conclusion:

The Dell PowerEdge R740xd2 is a server designed to tackle the most challenging computing tasks with ease. Its impressive performance, scalability, and security features position it as a leader in the data center hardware market. Whether you’re an enterprise, a research institution, or a cloud service provider, this server can be a valuable asset, ensuring your data-intensive workloads are handled efficiently and securely.

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Events

VMware Explore 2024 | Las Vegas – Recap

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 5 minutes read

VMware Explore Las Vegas

The Venetian Convention and Expo Center
August 26, 2024

Day 1

Its an absolute blast to connect with an incredible group of individuals from the VMware community during day 1 of VMware Explore 2024. The event brought together some of the brightest minds in the industry, including the prestigious VCDX (VMware Certified Design Expert) professionals (John Arrasjid & Mark Gabryjelsk)  and the dedicated team from VMware Education. (Karl Childs & James Robinson)

The energy and passion within the team was exciting, as we shared ideas, discussed emerging trends, and exchanged knowledge. It was inspiring to witness the depth of expertise and commitment demonstrated by each member of this remarkable team. Their dedication to driving innovation, educating the community, and shaping the future of virtualized infrastructure is truly admirable.

The Hub & Expo

This is an awesome area to connect with the community and networking space of VMware Explore. This area welcomes all attendees to kick back and relax, network and learn from the Code Community or Expert Bar. There are many activities and break out sessions and live streaming like the Broadcast Booth featuring theCUBE, the Spring Theater, Hands-on Labs and the VMware Rewards Space. The all-encompassing VMware Communities Space now includes VMUG and more!

Lots of great Vendors giving out great information on their products, and solutions and cant forget, SWAG!! There was vendors giving out light sabers to t-shirts, and so many stickers! Its a great time to collaborate with friends and vendors and get to learn about their products that they are offering that works along with VMware Cloud Foundation!

VMware Communities (vExpert & VMUG)

I enjoyed spending time at the VMware Community Booth, where Corey Romero – Senior Manager of vExpert Community, we talked about many exciting things, from vExpert and the future projects, collaboration with team members, spending quality time with an amazing individual that cares for his vExpert Team, without Corey the community wouldnt be the same, thank you to all you do!

Day 2

The General Session

In the morning it was all about the main stage! Where everyone got together for an innovative general session where attendees heard about cutting-edge developments in private cloud, AI, app delivery, and edge computing. Broadcom leaders, VMware experts, and innovative customers provided real-world insights on optimizing, scaling, and securing enterprise workloads. Check out my other blog post about the General Session here!

The rest of the day 2, was filled with countless hours or sessions and events and networking with fellow vExperts and Broadcom leadership, got invited to a Broadcom Leadership Party where I got to meet and talk to Hock Tan! It was a great time where he answered our questions and as well had fun and made us laugh!

Meeting Hock Tan

Day 3

The Party!

Another long day is over and a successful day! There have been many outstanding sessions around 80 of them, 16 VMware {code} Theater sessions, 27 Meet The Expert Roundtables, 23 Community Quick Talks, and 19 ​​Hands-on Labs Expert-led Workshops. Tons of great knowledge being shared by the community. Networking with fellow team members within many different industries and being able to share knowledge and experiences. Also cant forget about The Party! with a DJ playing music and then live band Jimmy Eat World!

The Party! First there was a DJ that played outstanding music, then around 9pm Jimmy Eat World came up on stage and started off playing great music!

The Party was located indoors in the Main Stage Hall at The Venetian, it was awesome to have it indoors this year, there was a great turn out of Explorer’s that showed up, tons of great food, drinks, and networking going on!

Overall, Day 3 of VMware Explore 2024 delivered valuable insights and practical takeaways for attendees. The conference continues to be a great platform for learning, connecting, and staying updated with the latest trends and advancements in virtualization and cloud computing. In the end The Party was a blast, great DJ and awesome live music – Jimmy Eat World

Day 4

A Farewell for now…

VMware Explore 2024 has come to a close, and it was an incredible week filled with new insights, connections, and innovations. Over the past five days, we’ve had the opportunity to dive into the latest developments in cloud infrastructure, digital transformation, and new product releases.

The event featured thought-provoking general session, breakout sessions, and hands-on labs, offering attendees a well-rounded experience. We heard from industry leaders, got to explore cutting-edge technologies, and connected with like-minded individuals passionate about driving digital change.

One of the standout moments was the announcement of VMware’s new suite of products, VMware Cloud Foundation 9, which is designed to empower organizations in their digital transformation journey with a on premise private cloud. With enhanced security features, improved scalability, and simplified management, these tools will enable businesses to build more efficient and resilient cloud infrastructures.

Another high point was the opportunity to network with peers. The event brought together a diverse range of professionals, allowing for the exchange of ideas, best practices, and even future collaborations. It was inspiring to see the dedication and expertise represented in the room.

As we bid farewell to VMware Explore 2024, we feel grateful for the knowledge shared and connections made. The event has equipped us with fresh perspectives and practical insights that we will carry forward in our journey towards digital excellence.

Until next year, VMware Explore 2025!

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Events

Top 10 VMware Explore 2024 Sessions & Schedule Builder Is Live!

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 6 minutes read

It’s that time of the year again – VMware Explore 2024 is just around the corner! The premier virtualization and cloud computing event is set to take place on August 26 through 29th, 2024 in Las Vegas, NV. As excitement builds, VMware has announced that the Schedule Builder is now live, giving attendees the opportunity to craft their ideal conference experience.

What’s New at VMware Explore 2024?

This year’s VMware Explore promises to be even more engaging and informative than its predecessors. The event will feature a packed schedule of keynotes, technical sessions, hands-on labs, and networking opportunities. Some of the highlights include:

  • Keynote presentations by industry thought leaders and VMware experts
  • Technical sessions on topics such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning
  • Hands-on labs where attendees can get hands-on experience with VMware products and technologies
  • Networking events and parties to connect with peers and industry professionals

Customize Your Schedule with the Schedule Builder

The Schedule Builder is now live, allowing you to create your personalized schedule for VMware Explore 2024. This powerful tool enables you to:

  • Browse through the conference program and select sessions that align with your interests and goals.
  • Filter sessions by topic, track, or speaker to find relevant content.
  • Create a customized schedule that suits your needs and preferences.
  • Set reminders and notifications to ensure you don’t miss any of your selected sessions.

Tips for Maximizing Your VMware Explore 2024 Experience

To get the most out of this year’s VMware Explore , here are some tips:

  • Plan ahead: Use the Schedule Builder to create a schedule that works best for you.
  • Prioritize your interests: Focus on sessions and topics that align with your goals and job responsibilities.
  • Network and collaborate: Take advantage of networking opportunities and engage with fellow attendees and industry professionals.
  • Stay up-to-date: Follow VMware Explore social media channels and official blog to stay informed about the latest updates, announcements, and tips.

Follow VMware Explore – Linkedin for the latest news and Follow all updates on X

My Top Sessions!

These are my top sessions I am excited to attend:

VCF Operations: Getting More Out of It! [ELW2412LV]

VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) is a comprehensive platform that integrates compute, storage, and networking into a single, cloud-based environment. VCF Operations is a critical component of this ecosystem, providing the necessary tools and automation to manage and optimize your VMware-based infrastructure.

Adventures in VMware Home Labs by Virtually Speaking Podcast [CODEP1801LV]

As a technologist, you’re always looking to stay ahead of the curve and learn from others. In this session, Adventures in VMware Home Labs by Virtually Speaking Podcast, you’ll embark on an exciting journey through the world of home labs with the Virtually Speaking Podcast team! Get ready for a unique experience that combines tech-savviness, creativity, and community building.

What’s This Session All About?

Join this awesome session as they share their personal adventures in setting up and running VMware-based home labs. You’ll learn about:

  • The Why: Why build a home lab, and what benefits it can bring to your career and personal growth.
  • The How: Tips and best practices for designing, building, and managing a successful home lab.
  • The What: Real-world examples of how home labs have helped the hosts (and their guests) improve skills, explore new technologies, and collaborate with others.

Shaping The Future Of Cloud And AI Innovation [GEN2495LV]

As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of cloud and artificial intelligence (AI), it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. In this thought-provoking session, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in cloud and AI innovation, and discuss how they will shape the future of our industry.

What’s This General Session All About?

Join us as we delve into the exciting world of cloud and AI, exploring topics such as:

  • Cloud-Native Applications: Learn about the latest trends and best practices for building cloud-native applications that are scalable, secure, and highly available.
  • AI-Driven Innovation: Discover how AI is transforming industries and driving innovation, from natural language processing to computer vision and beyond.
  • Edge Computing: Understand the importance of edge computing in today’s IoT-enabled world and learn about the latest advancements in this rapidly evolving space.

AI Without GPUs: Using Your Existing CPU Resources To Run AI Workloads [INVB2189LV]

As AI adoption continues to grow, the need for powerful processing capabilities becomes increasingly important. Traditionally, this has meant relying on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) or specialized hardware like TPUs or FPGAs. However, what if you could harness your existing Central Processing Unit (CPU) resources to run AI workloads? In this session, we’ll explore the possibilities and limitations of running AI without GPUs.

What’s This Session All About?

Join us as we delve into the world of CPU-based AI processing. You’ll learn about:

  • CPU-Accelerated AI: Discover how CPUs can be used to accelerate AI workloads, such as machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
  • Best Practices for Optimizing CPU-Based AI: Learn strategies for optimizing your CPU-based AI workloads, including data type selection, kernel optimization, and memory management.

VMware Cloud Foundation Infrastructure Design With NSX [VCFB1392LV]

As you embark on the journey of deploying VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), it’s crucial to design an infrastructure that is scalable, secure, and efficient. In this session, we’ll focus on designing a robust VCF infrastructure using NSX (Network Virtualization) as the networking fabric.

What’s This Session All About?

Join us as we explore the best practices for designing a VCF infrastructure with NSX. You’ll learn about:

  • VCF Infrastructure Components: Understand the key components of a VCF infrastructure, including vSphere, vSAN, and NSX.
  • NSX Architecture: Learn about the architecture of NSX and how it provides a software-defined networking (SDN) fabric for your VCF environment.
  • Design Considerations: Discover best practices for designing a VCF infrastructure with NSX, including considerations for scalability, security, and performance.
  • Use Cases: Explore real-world use cases for deploying VCF with NSX, such as edge computing, IoT, and cloud-native applications.

Building A Storage TCO Model: How VMware Cloud Foundation And VSAN Optimize Storage Costs [VCFB1570LV]

As you embark on the journey of deploying VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) with vSAN, it’s crucial to understand how this combination can optimize storage costs. In this session, we’ll delve into the world of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models and explore how VCF and vSAN can help you build a more cost-effective storage infrastructure.

What’s This Session All About?

Join us as we explore the art of building a storage TCO model. You’ll learn about:

  • Storage TCO Model: Understand what a storage TCO model is, why it’s important, and how to create one.
  • vSAN Architecture: Learn about the architecture of vSAN and how it provides a software-defined storage solution for your VCF environment.
  • Cost Optimization Strategies: Discover best practices for optimizing storage costs using VCF and vSAN, including strategies for right-sizing storage, leveraging flash storage, and managing storage capacity.
  • Real-World Examples: Explore real-world examples of how customers have used VCF and vSAN to optimize their storage costs and improve their overall IT efficiency.

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VMware Cloud Foundation

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2!

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 5 minutes read

The ever-evolving landscape of cloud infrastructure demands constant innovation and adaptability from technology solutions. VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) 5.2 arrives with a plethora of groundbreaking features and add-ons, empowering you to build, deploy, and manage modern infrastructure with unmatched efficiency and agility.

This release is a significant milestone in the journey of VCF, introducing cutting-edge advancements across AI-powered automation, data processing, and storage management. From intelligent workload placement to dynamic performance optimization and automated data handling, VCF 5.2 empowers you to:

  • Maximize resource utilization: Leverage AI-powered insights to allocate workloads optimally across the cluster, ensuring efficient resource allocation and improved performance.
  • Boost data agility: Embrace intelligent data management with automated data processing units (DPUs), enabling high-performance data analytics and persistent data storage.
  • Simplify storage management: Introduce new vSAN Extended Storage Architecture (ESA) policies for automated data tiering and disaster recovery, ensuring optimal storage utilization and enhanced resilience.
  • And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
VCF 5.2 comes packed with numerous other exciting features and enhancements, including:
  • Enhanced networking capabilities: Improved routing performance and stability with support for BGP routing in private networks.
  • Expanded automation: Streamline workflows with additional self-service capabilities for users and automated infrastructure provisioning.
  • Improved security: Strengthen data protection with advanced encryption options and role-based access controls. Utilizing Identity Federation Support with Microsoft Entra ID and also 3rd party authentication services or well known AD/LDAP or okta and ADFS.
  • Import an existing vSphere Infrastructure into your VMware Cloud Foundation infrastructure.

Here in this blog post we will go over many different topics but we will go in depth in future blog posts on other areas of VCF 5.2!

With the new VCF 5.2 you can import a standalone vSphere environment which it can be a new or existing one and let you manage its lifecycle through one single pane window through the SDDC Manager.

Flexible Deployments

Now you can deploy VCF in many different use cases, from a data center in the edge or even a air-gapped environment. Now in VCF 5.2 you have the flexibility to deploy as your heart desires!

Lifecycle Management

Now this is an exciting addition to VCF 5.2! We can upgrade SDDC Manager independently where before it was apart of the management workload domain, this provides a lot of flexibility where before some customers needed to stay on a specific version before it could get upgraded, it had to go through thorough tests.

Software Bill of Materials

Patch Individual Components using SDDC Manager

I made a great blog post on how to utilize the SDDC Manager Async Patch tool, well before it was a CLI driven automation utility where you would have to stage your commands and prepare for upgrading the indiviual products outside the Software Bill of Materials

The VMware SDDC Manager async patch tool allows you to upgrade individual products outside of the standard VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) baseline. This tool can be used to upgrade products such as vCenter, NSX, and ESXi to newer versions without affecting the overall VCF deployment.

From My Blog Post Here

Offline Bundle Repo

Now, this is a improvement for Air-Gapped environments or secured environments where there is no internet connection, with hosting your own repo for all the upgrades for VCF this will be a game-changer where it will save time and re-downloading each bundle or all the bundles.

vSphere 8 u3 Update

Key highlights of this release include:

  • Ability to manage Kubernetes clusters independent of vSphere, offering greater flexibility and autonomy for hybrid and multi-cloud deployments.
  • Simplified management of TKG clusters through the vSphere web client, streamlining workflows and reducing administrative overhead.
  • Automated scaling of virtual machines (VMs) based on workload demands, ensuring optimal resource utilization and cost efficiency.
  • Support for scale-up and scale-down of CPU, memory, and vCPUs simultaneously, enabling efficient adaptation to dynamic workloads.

vSAN Stretched Cluster Support:

  • Expansion of vSAN to support stretched clusters across geographically dispersed locations.
  • Continuous data consistency and disaster recovery across sites, ensuring high availability and business continuity.
  • VM Backup and Restore:
  • Comprehensive snapshot-based backup of TKGs, enabling easy restoration and disaster recovery.

Keeping your vSphere Updated

This ensures the following:

  • Optimal infrastructure performance and efficiency.
  • Enhanced security and compliance.
  • Improved management and automation capabilities.
  • Support for modern workloads.
  • Access to continuous innovation and support.

But also, now we can patch vSphere environment much faster and without taking too many services down and causing unhappy customers. So, now with the new upgrade process the host enters a partial maintained mode where the host has existing workloads operating on it but no new workloads will migrate nor any new VMs or containers will get deployed on it till it gets upgraded.

Hardware Support

Protecting crucial workloads utilizing DPUs, (Data Processing Units) this provides high availability with active and standby states for workloads where if there is any outage that could occur the operations switch over to the standby DPU. Which this is a really neat addon for mission critical workloads that rely on DPUs!

Also even taking off the load from the primary DPU and being able to provide additional bandwidth by utilizing DPUs to provide double the networking throughput and keeping workloads always on.

Also, with Intel’s AI/ML Workloads, the Intel CPU Max Series is an whole new type of CPU where they have high bandwidth memory on the chip to accelerate AI/ML workloads by ensuring advanced security and reducing bottlenecks during high demands.

vSphere with Different Types of GPU Workloads

Now with this release, customers have the opportunity now to use different types of workloads on a single GPU, where it could be Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning or even like utilizing graphics or VDI. This will help the GPU resources be shared among different deployments as well allowing customers to have the flexibility as they choose.

Security & Compliance

  • More Choices in Identity Management

TLS Ciphers allowing quicker implementation

STIG and PCI Compliance with easy to use hardening guides

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2 is a groundbreaking advancement in your own private or hybrid cloud infrastructure management, offering a comprehensive suite of features and enhancements to empower you to build, deploy, and manage modern infrastructure with unparalleled efficiency and agility.

With intelligent automation, enhanced security, and innovative storage capabilities, VCF 5.2 provides a foundation for building resilient, adaptable, and efficient cloud-native environments.

Stay tuned for further blog posts where we’ll delve deeper into each of these features and explore how they can transform your infrastructure management practices!

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CloudVMware Cloud Foundation

How To Upgrade VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.x

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 4 minutes read

Have you heard the exciting news about the latest release of VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.1? This update is packed with tons of new features that are sure to get you pumped up. From AI technologies and Private AI implementations to a slew of other enhancements, there’s something for everyone in this release. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of cloud computing, this update has something to offer. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s dive into all the new and exciting features that VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.1 has to offer!

Highlighted Features

As announced at the 2024 GTC AI Conference, Broadcom has announced initial availability of  VMware Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA as an advanced add-on to VMware Cloud Foundation. VMware Private AI Foundation marks the beginning of a new era for infrastructure solutions, powered by VMware Cloud Foundation to support a wide range of Generative AI use cases. Read more about VMware Cloud Foundation AI/ML Solutions here.   

VMware Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA

VMware Cloud Foundation is the core infrastructure platform for VMware Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA, delivering modern private cloud that enables organizations to dynamically scale GenAI workloads on demand.  VMware Cloud Foundation provides an automated, self-service cloud experience that accelerates productivity for developers and data scientists, while delivering comprehensive security and resilience to protect and recover an organization’s most sensitive intellectual property.  

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.1 Bill of Materials: 

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.1 – Release Notes

Lets start the Upgrade!

Take a snapshot of your SDDC Manager and your vCenter Server, ensure they are offline snapshots.

Login to your SDDC Manager, and you shall see new bundles appear, this is only true if you have a internet connected VCF stack. If you are in a offline deployment follow this other walk through i made on how to download bundles for VCF and other products.

Example of what you shall see when bundles are automatically downloaded into your SDDC Manager

Next before we upgrade – ensure you run a Pre-Check Under the Workload Domains you want to upgrade

The Pre-check will verify connectivity and password authentication with service accounts to all different appliances. Once the pre-check is done we will proceed to the next step which is to plan the upgrade!

My Pre-check had few errors, one of the major errors was related to VM/Host Affinity rules for certain VMs like domain controller, Aria Logs, Aria Operations, so I had to disable the rules for the upgrade to ensure that there is no error during deployment.

Disabled VM/Host Rules

Here you will see the Pre-Check Results, I had 5 errors which one of of them was storage capacity of the vCenter Server and then VM/Host Rules that were enabled that needed to be disabled to continue the upgrade.

Once Pre-Check has been completed, you will see that your workload domain will have Updates Available in the right side of the window as shown below.

Now we plan for the upgrade, this is a new addition which helps out the upgrade path and sees the source and target version along with being able to see what bundles or what products have been upgraded if you have utilized the Async Patch tool like in this blog post here.

Now, you will see that my vCenter Server and NSX have been upgraded that is due to the Async patch tool, I upgraded my VCF out of cycle of the main released to fix few issues and security vulnerabilities. So thus the Green check marks for NSX_T Manager and vCenter and ESXi.

Now, we will wait – this task is running in the background, you will in a moment see that the Download Bundles task(s) will be running.

After the binaries have been downloaded, staged and prepared. You will see that your workload domain that was once with updates available is now ready for upgrade.

Lets Start the upgrade! Ensure you have GOOD BACKUPS and/or SNAPSHOTS of the SDDC Manager and vCenter Server. If you do lets continue!

SDDC Manager is now upgrading itself, it will upgrade the core components as well as the drift update if it is needed.

  • Setup Common Appliance Platform
  • Validate Services Before Upgrade
  • Remove Packages Pre Upgrade
  • Update Necessary RPMs For Photon4 Upgrade
  • VMware Cloud Foundation Services and Platform Upgrades
  • Authenticate Common Appliance Platform
  • Update VCF Service and Platform rpms
  • Reboot SDDC Manager
  • Refresh Custom Certificates
  • Update SDDC Manager Appliance Version
  • SDDC Manager Deployment Drift
  • Run VCF Services and Platform upgrades Post Validation
  • Validate Services
  • Cleanup
  • Stop Common Appliance platform Service

After 16 minutes and 29 seconds, we have an upgraded SDDC Manager! Since my vCenter and NSX have all been upgraded the upgrade would of continued and all the hosts would have upgraded automatically minus few questions being asked during the deployment.

Successfully deployed VMware Cloud Foundation 5.1.1!

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VMware NSX

NSX 4.x Certificate Replacement

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 2 minutes read

Tonight’s topic is on replacing NSX Certificate for each NSX Manager appliance and also the VIP. If you’re tired of battling with certificate issues and are looking for a straightforward solution, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of replacing NSX certificates for each manager and the VIP in a hassle-free manner. We will break down the steps and provide you with expert tips to ensure a smooth transition. Let’s get started!

What you will need:

  • Postman client
  • Certificate CSR
  • Certificate Generated by your Enterprise CA (I use Microsoft CA)
  • Your Enterprise Root CA Cert
  • Your newly generated Private Key
  1. With your admin account, log in to NSX Manager.
  2. Select System > Certificates.

Import your Certificate and Private Key Into your NSX Manager via Web UI

Service Certificate – No

Certificate Contents

  • (Cert)
  • (Intermediate – if exists)
  • (Root Cert)

Once you have all pre-requisites ready lets open up postman client and what you will need to do is prepare the authentication portion of your postman to authenticate successfully to the NSX Managers. Once you will then you can start getting the API calls ready.

First lets validate the certificate we imported –

  • GET https://<nsx-mgr>/api/v1/trust-management/certificates/<cert-id>?action=validate
https://nsx01a.prd.virtualbytes.io/api/v1/trust-management/certificates/6d78f17d-f58c-4c27-99fd-31b572dfb1e8?action=validate

Once, you see Status OK then proceed to the next step below.

POST https://<FQDN>/api/v1/trust-management/certificates/<cert-id>?action=apply_certificate&service_type=API&node_id=<node-id>

https://nsx01a.prd.virtualbytes.io/api/v1/trust-management/certificates/6d78f17d-f58c-4c27-99fd-31b572dfb1e8?action=apply_certificate&service_type=API&node_id=7cbf2942-086e-9316-b277-95beed9d91b1

Repeat the follow for the additional NSX Managers – Below you can grab the UUID from System – Appliances – UUID (Copy to Clipboard)

https://nsx01.prd.virtualbytes.io/api/v1/trust-management/certificates/6d78f17d-f58c-4c27-99fd-31b572dfb1e8?action=apply_certificate&service_type=MGMT_CLUSTER

There we go, the VIP of my NSX cluster has a enterprise CA signed certificate!

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Cloud

The New Frontier of Generative AI & VMware Multi-Cloud!

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 1 minutes read

Generative AI and VMware Solutions, with the excitement and potential of new language learning models, will be adapted by businesses but with each business having their own domain to run their data through there are lots of concerns with security, privacy, and legal issues.

Large language models and multi-cloud infrastructure can complement each other by distributing the computational workload across multiple cloud providers. This allows for increased performance and scalability, as well as reducing the risk of service disruption or downtime.

Multi-cloud deployment of large language models enables organizations to leverage the strengths and capabilities of different cloud providers. By strategically distributing the workload, businesses can optimize cost-efficiency, enhance data privacy and security, and avoid vendor lock-in.

In this Briefing, you’ll hear insights from VMware business and technical leaders on topics including:

  • The opportunities and challenges CIOs see in transforming their businesses with AI.
  • Why multi-cloud environments will be the foundation for enterprise AI.
  • The importance of a responsible and ethical approach to AI.
  • The role of an AI-enabling ecosystem for customer choice and flexibility.
  • AI research priorities for VMware.
  • A glimpse into VMware’s focus on accelerating and simplifying customer adoption of AI.

Speakers include VMware President Sumit Dhawan, VP of Research Sujata Banerjee, and VP of Cross-Cloud Services Vittorio Viarengo. Don’t miss this important conversation!

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