VMware backup

[iaw]

Hi,

I use nbu 7.x to backup vmware clients, It will backup all drives in vm clients.
Question :
Whenever it's doing screenshot, will it created snapshot image file in VM Datastores temporary?
Means I have to allocate enough freespace in VM Datastores for this.

Thanks,
IAW

[sksujeet]

1> Actually the Netbackup API communicates to Virtual Center to take the snapshot, the snapshot is taken and once exported it is deleted.
2> The snapshot on vmware doesn't take much space, it would be around 100 MB. If you wana know more about snapshot go through this article.
http://kb.vmware.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?language=en_US&cmd=displayKC&externalId=100375...

[iaw]

Hi,

As I dont have Ent Client License for vmware off-host backup, what would be the best scenario to backup vmdk files?
1. Is it possible to install client agent in ESX servers and take vmdk files as a rergular file system backup?
2. Any possibility to use VCB backup? ( I use VMware vSphere 5.1 )
3. Any best practice scenario, please?

Thanks,
IAW

[Marianne]

You need Enterprise Client license to backup vmdk files.

1. No. Also answered in your other post.... https://www-secure.symantec.com/connect/forums/vmware-vmdk-backup-0 
If you install NBU Client software in VM hosts, backups are taken as regular clients.

2. VCB backups are no longer used by NBU or VMware. See this topic in NetBackup 7.5.0.x for VMware Administrator's Guide  http://www.symantec.com/docs/DOC5605 
Support for VCB in NetBackup 7.5.x

3. Yes - see this excellent article: https://www-secure.symantec.com/connect/articles/netbackup-vmware-backup-over-san