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VMware Cloud Foundation

VMware Cloud Foundation

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2.1.1

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 2 minutes read

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2.1.1 Release Information

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2.1.1 includes bug fixes and a new version of SDDC Manager.

You can upgrade to VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2.1.1 from VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2 or later.

Upgrading from 5.2.1:

SDDC Manager is the only component that requires an upgrade. See Independent SDDC Manager Upgrade using the SDDC Manager UI.

Upgrading from 5.2:

See Flexible BOM Upgrade in VMware Cloud Foundation. When selecting the target version for SDDC Manager choose the version listed in the BOM update table below.

Known issues:

  • In order to upgrade from 5.2 to 5.2.1.1, you must download the bundles for both SDDC Manager 5.2.1.0 and SDDC Manager 5.2.1.1.
  • The Bundle Management window in the SDDC Manager UI displays “VMware Cloud Foundation Update 5.2.1.0” instead of “VMware Cloud Foundation Update 5.2.1.1” for the 5.2.1.1 bundle. The description of the bundle correctly describes it as the upgrade bundle for 5.2.1.1. This is a cosmetic issue only and does not impact the upgrade.

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2.1.1 contains the following BOM updates:

Software ComponentVersionDateBuild Number
SDDC Manager5.2.1.105 DEC 202424397777

Resolved Issues

The following issues are resolved in this release:

  • VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2 does not support the “License Now” option for vSAN add-on licenses based on capacity per tebibyte (TiB).
  • Remove unresponsive ESXi Host fails when SDDC Manager certificate does not have subject alternative name.

Upgrade Process

Take a snapshot or have a backup of SDDC Manager if anything goes wrong.

Update is downloading, should be ready within 10 minutes

Now that the upgrade is staged and the bundle has been automatically ingested you can start the upgrade!

The whole upgrade took – 20 minutes 22 seconds

Once your SDDC Manager is upgrade you may proceed to NSX and ESXi upgrades for this release, which the same upgrade process exists in my other blog posts.

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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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Education

New Updates on vExpert 2025 & VMUG Advantage Programs

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 4 minutes read

VMUG Advantage and VCF Licenses: A Cost-Effective Way to Stay Updated

If you’re looking for a way to stay ahead in your VMware career, look no further than the VMUG Advantage program. For just $210 per year, you get access to a wealth of benefits that will keep your skills sharp and your resume competitive. And did we mention that you also unlock exclusive VCF licenses?!

What’s Included with VMUG Advantage?

  • Exam Discounts: The VMUG Advantage program includes access to discounts for the VCF exam, which covers the most recent VMware products and features. This exam is a great way to validate your skills and knowledge. Exam Info Here (VCP-VCF Administrator)
  • VCF Licenses: With your VCF exam pass, you’ll receive three years of VCF licenses, giving you the flexibility to install and test VMware products for personal development for your home lab!
  • Broadcom Account: As a VMUG Advantage member, you’ll also gain access to a Broadcom account, where you can manage your licenses and access additional resources.
  • vExpert: In 2025, if you are within the vExpert family you automatically get a free VMUG Advantage membership and exclusive access to vExpert-only events and resources!

What are the Requirements?

The VMUG Advantage program is designed to benefit both beginners and experienced professionals. Here are the key requirements to getting VCF Licenses

  • You must be an active VMUG Advantage member. This includes signing up for the annual membership fee, which is typically a small fraction of the total cost of the benefits you unlock. The cost for VMUG Advantage is $210.00 a year! Really great cost for the amount of benefits you will receive from VMUG Advantage Program.
  • A valid VMware Certified Professional – VMware Cloud Foundation 2024 certification is required. If you don’t currently hold a VCP-VCF, you can use the VMUG Advantage subscription to get a discount code for the exam and gain the necessary credentials for VCF License.

The vExpert program is designed to benefit influencers and bloggers and vloggers to showcase and spread knowledge within the community and be a voice!

To be eligible for vExpert status, you must: (More Info here)

  • Qualifications for the vExpert Award
    To qualify for the vExpert award, you need to be actively sharing your VMware expertise with the community. For the 2025 award, judges will review your content from the previous year, 2024.
  • Here’s how you can earn the vExpert Award
    Activities should be completed outside your day job and must be your original work. Ways to qualify are listed below; some categories are auto-approved, while others depend on the quality and volume of your contributions.
  • Here are several ways to qualify
    Blogging: Write blog posts on VMware products or events like VMware Explore to educate and engage the community.
    Code Sharing: Share custom code or tools via websites, apps, VMware {code}, or internal channels.
    Enterprise/Internal Influencer: Lead knowledge-sharing sessions within your organization, such as webinars or workshops on VMware solutions.
    Event Speaking: Present at VMUG meetings, VMware Explore, or other conferences to inspire and educate peers.
    Podcasting: Host or co-host a regular podcast on VMware topics, sharing valuable insights with the community.
    Video Content: Create tutorials, product demos, or how-to videos on platforms like YouTube.
    Online Forums: Support the community by answering questions on VMTN and VMware-related Reddit threads.
    VMUG Leadership Support: Assist your local VMUG chapter’s leadership for award consideration.
  • Auto-Approve Categories
    Book Authors: Published book authors and co-authors from the previous year are auto-approved but must still apply.
    VCDX Certification: VCDX certification holders are auto-approved but must still apply.
    VMUG Leadership: Active VMUG leaders are auto-approved but must still apply.

Why Choose VMUG Advantage or vExpert?

With VMUG Advantage, you get a strong return on your investment. The combination of VCF licenses, exam preparation, exam discounts, VMware Explore Discounts, and community access can help elevate your career and keep you at the forefront of VMware innovations. Plus, with vExpert status, you’ll join a network of like-minded professionals who are passionate about sharing knowledge and pushing the boundaries of VMware technology.

So, if you’re looking for a way to stay ahead in your VMware journey, consider investing in VMUG Advantage. It’s an affordable way to gain access to valuable resources, licenses, and community connections that can benefit your professional growth.

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Cloud

VMware Cloud Director – Failed to Start

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 3 minutes read

Welcome, tech enthusiasts, to another thrilling dive into the depths of VMware’s cloud management platform, Cloud Director. Today, we find ourselves confronted by an issue that has left many a cloud administrator scratching their heads: the mysterious failure of Cloud Director to initiate its services due to a missing public address in the AllowedOrigins configuration. This blog is your lifeline, offering a comprehensive roadmap to navigate through this technical maze and restore the harmony of your Cloud Director environment!

“Failed to Start: An error occurred during the initialization” error when trying to access vCloud Director after updating public addresses

Additional Informatoin avaiabled from VMware’s Support Site – Failed to Start: An error occurred during the initialization

Procedure:

  • Take a Powered off snapshot of your VMware Cloud Director Cells, (ensure to turn them off properly).
  • Power on the VCD Appliances

Login into VCD Administration Provider Portal

Go to Swagger API

Expand the GET /1.0.0/site/settings/cors

Click ” Try it out “

When you hit ” Execute” Below as in the screenshot provided you should see a similar output. Once you see your output, and you see missing entries for any additional VCD Cells, you will need to input them into the following order as provided.

Once you have staged and prepared your JSON for the AllowedOrigins, using Notepad ++ or VS Code then you will go to the PUT section of Swagger API Explorer as in screenshot below.

An Example of JSON: As provided ensure to replicate the missing FQDN or IP for each section as the sample JSON below.
{
  "resultTotal": 18,
  "pageCount": 1,
  "page": 1,
  "pageSize": 25,
  "associations": null,
  "values": [
    {
      "origin": "172.31.181.200"
    },
    {
      "origin": "172.31.200.10"
    },
    {
      "origin": "172.31.200.11"
    },
    {
      "origin": "IP ADDRESS For Missing Node"
    },
    {
      "origin": "cloud.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "cloud01.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "cloud02.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "FQDN for Missing Node"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://172.31.181.200"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://172.31.200.10"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://172.31.200.11"
    },
    {
      "origin": "IP ADDRESS For Missing Node"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://cloud.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://cloud01.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "http://cloud02.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "FQDN for Missing Node"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://172.31.181.200"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://172.31.200.10"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://172.31.200.11"
    },
    {
      "origin": "FQDN for Missing Node"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://cloud.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://cloud01.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "https://cloud02.virtualbytes.io"
    },
    {
      "origin": "FQDN for Missing Node"
    }
  ]
}

After your JSON is ready, you will want to paste it into the white body of the PUT request and hit execute.

Toward the bottom of the CORS PUT Section you should see a 200 OK Status, after you see that you should see VCD cells that were missing start up and also if you re-run the GET command you should see your missing nodes.

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EventsVMware Cloud Foundation

VMware Explore 2024 – General Session – Shaping The Future Of Cloud And AI Innovation

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 3 minutes read

Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, is about to shine even brighter as we step into a new era of technology. VMware Explore 2024 has arrived, and with it, a gathering of some of the most brilliant minds from around the globe, ready to shape the future of infrastructure and innovation.

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. In this blog post, we’ll recap 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.

Hock Tan said that the CEOs’ decisions to push their companies into public clouds have left their IT departments with post-traumatic stress disorder, while silos of datacenter tech have left tech teams “screwed”. Which is 100% true, organizations are not ready for the cloud and the insane costs, cloud should be utilized to provide on-demand resources when an organization requires them.

The Future of VMware:
Tan began by highlighting VMware’s rich history and its role in revolutionizing virtualization and cloud computing. He acknowledged the company’s impressive track record of innovation, including recent innovations like VCF 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.

He then set the tone for the rest of his presentation by emphasizing that while VMware has come a long way, there is still much to be done. Hock Tan said, “We’re just getting started,” hinting at a bold and ambitious future ahead for the company. He went on to describe VMware’s strategy as one that focuses on three key pillars: cloud, modern applications, and digital infrastructure.

Cloud and Virtualization:
Tan discussed how VMware has been at the forefront of cloud computing since its early days with virtualization. He highlighted the ongoing evolution of cloud technologies and how VMware is adapting to meet the changing needs of businesses. This includes investing in hybrid cloud solutions and expanding its presence in public, private, and edge clouds. Tan also mentioned VMware’s commitment to open standards and interoperability, ensuring that their products can seamlessly integrate with various cloud environments.


In his presentation at VMware Explore 2024, Hock Tan offered a compelling vision for the future of VMware, highlighting its commitment to innovation and customer success. By focusing on cloud, modern applications, and digital infrastructure, VMware is positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of businesses. Tan’s reassurance to customers that Broadcom wants to help and continue investing in their success are likely to alleviate any concerns about the company’s future direction. As VMware continues to execute on its strategy, it will be fascinating to see how the company evolves and adapts to the ever-changing landscape of technology.

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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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Tips & TricksVMware Cloud Foundation

VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2 – Tips & Troubleshooting

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 3 minutes read

Today’s blog post is about VCF and how it is a comprehensive cloud management platform that enables organizations to build, deploy, and manage private clouds. With the release of VCF 5.2, VMware has further enhanced the platform’s capabilities, making it an even more attractive choice for businesses looking to modernize their infrastructure. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the process of upgrading specific components in VCF 5.2, including ESXi and Image Management.

This will be a living blog post – Any Issues I encounter will be documented here!

PowerShell Script for VMware Cloud Foundation Bundle Management

Below I will walk you through on using the PowerShell Script which is provided for end-users to be able to safely and easily clean up bundles within their SDDC Manager.

  1. Prepare System Requirements:
    • Windows, Linux, or MacOS running PowerShell Core 7.3.0 or later.
    • VMware PowerCLI 13.1 or later
    • PowerVCF 2.3.0 or later
  2. Download attached script.
  3. Extract script, change to its directory.
  4. Run script
    • with parameters:
      • .\VcfBundleManagement.ps1 -user <SDDC_Manager_user> -server <SDDC_Manager_FQDN> -pass <password> -rootPass <root_password>
      • Where:
        • <SDDC_Manager_user>      is the username to authenticate with SDDC Manager.
        • <password>                          is the password to authenticate with SDDC Manager
        • <SDDC_Manafer_FQDN>    is the fully qualified domain name of the SDDC Manager
        • <root_password>                  is the password for the root user on the SDDC Manager appliance
    • without parameters (script will ask for input parameters):
      • .\VcfBundleManagement.ps1
  5. Select options from the displayed menu and press enter to run it.

Specify your SDDC Manager ->

Once connected with your SSO Account ( I used [email protected], but any administrative privilege account shall work as well)

Selecting #7 Will Delete all obsolete bundles which I had for VCF 5.1.1 and no longer needed them.

Detailed Storage usage of the SDDC Manager is provided by option #4

vLCM Upgrade Preparation

For the vLCM Portion of the upgrade, I encountered a issue where I could not proceed till I built a custom image with all the dell firmware’s and drives addon, due to the reason my previous version of ESXi had the Dell OEM drivers embedded.

Configure Update ->

Select your cluster(s) ->

Select your image, so for this part you will need to go into vCSA and prepare a image that is latest version, and ensure that all OEM drivers are updated.

Once image is created go to Image Management -> Import Image from your Management Workload Domain vCenter

It will take few minutes but once the import is complete for the vSphere 8.0 U3 version, then you will see it appear in the vLCM upgrade window.

Back at the vLCM upgrade window, assign the image(s) that you created earlier and click next.

Upgrading VMware Cloud Foundation 5.2 involves updating specific components like ESXi and Image Management. By following the step-by-step guides outlined above, you can ensure a smooth and successful upgrade process that takes advantage of the latest features and capabilities in VCF 5.2. Remember to always back up your configuration and data before upgrading, and plan for downtime accordingly. With these best practices in mind, you’ll be well on your way to modernizing your private cloud infrastructure with VMware Cloud Foundation.

Click Next -> After you have applied your custom image for vLCM Upgrade. Once the vLCM is complete then ESXi will upgrade and below you can specify the deployment orientation. If your servers support Quick Boot keep it enabled or even Live Patch.

Upgrade process is about to begin…

Upgrade in process!

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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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Events

Exciting New Sessions at VMware Explore 2024!

by Tommy Grot
written by Tommy Grot 4 minutes read

The VMware Explore 2024 content library is now live! Get ready for a week of insightful sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and innovative showcases from industry leaders and VMware experts. 💡

Beyond the insightful keynotes and thought-provoking discussions, VMware Explore 2024 offers an unparalleled opportunity to get your hands dirty with the latest technologies and deepen your knowledge in various domains.

Here’s what awaits you in the hands-on labs:

  • Practical workshops: Master new skills in areas like Kubernetes, security, networking, and more.
  • Solution-focused labs: Solve real-world challenges with hands-on guidance from VMware experts.
  • Dedicated lab environments: Ensure a focused and productive learning experience with curated lab settings.

Make sure to stop by the Hands On Labs during a break or downtime where you can test, learn and enjoy tinkering with HOL Environments that are provided to you during the event!

General sessions will cover a diverse range of topics:

  • Industry trends: Explore the future of technology across sectors like healthcare, finance, and sustainability.
  • Product updates: Get the latest news and insights on new products. Many exciting new advancements in private cloud, AI, app delivery and the edge.
  • Customer success stories: Learn how organizations are leveraging VMware solutions to achieve business outcomes.

Keynotes will inspire and challenge you:

  • Visionary leaders: Gain valuable perspectives from industry leaders who will share their insights on the most pressing challenges and opportunities in technology.
  • Inspiring talks: Prepare to be captivated by thought-provoking discussions covering a wide range of topics, from digital transformation to sustainability.

Session Recommendations!

Link to Session Accelerate Your Journey To Private Cloud With VMware Cloud Foundation [VCFP1362LV]

In this breakout session, William Lam and Karia Parb will talk about an exiting journey to being utilizing and modernizing your data center environments using VMware Cloud Foundation. How VCF can improve your business operations and systems! I have attended previous sessions by William Lam and they were outstanding!

Link to Session 4 Ways to Enhance the Network Experience Across Hybrid and Multi-Cloud [AODB1894LV]

This session will go into deep dive on how to enhance your Networking experience using VCF and NSX, and being able to migrate workloads from hybrid cloud to on prem, this is a great sessions for many organizations to attend due to the complexities that are involved with the unknowns of the Internet, where how things need to be configured properly to seamlessly scale and migrate workloads between the on-prem datacenter and hybrid cloud. So make sure to book this session!

Link to Session Shaping the Future of Cloud and AI Innovation [GEN2495LV]

Are you ready to shape your future of Cloud and Artificial Intelligence? Well this session is going to be a kick! With all the new advancements from Private AI on VCF and how organizations can improve and scale and operate their enterprise workloads by implementing and designing a solid VMware Cloud Foundation environment, this general session will be an awesome outlook on how AI, applications and data center computing will help the industry!

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

This is a session I want to attend my self, even for my home lab where I have a large environment to do lots of CPU workloads but when it comes to having GPUs they get very costly, so being able to run AI/ML workloads on CPU resources will be a game changer for many organizations as well, due to cost savings and also ease of use whereas GPUs require more infrastructure and also the cooling. This will be a popular session I can already see it filling up!

Don’t miss the chance to:

  • Network with fellow attendees and industry professionals.
  • Discover new ideas and innovations.
  • Gain practical skills and knowledge to enhance your career.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Register for sessions soon: Secure your spot for the sessions you’re most interested in and receive notifications when they go live.
  • Bookmark your sessions using the “♡” Icon so when the catalog opens for session registration then you will be notified.

Don’t forget to:

  • Follow VMware Explore on social media for updates, highlights, and exclusive content. ✨
  • Join the #VMwareExplore hashtag conversation to connect with other attendees and share your thoughts. 💬
  • Ready to explore the future of technology? Head over to the VMware Explore 2024 content library and start planning your viewing experience!
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