Just Starting

Hi guys I need help getting started when it comes to virtualization. I've used VMware player to help me with labs, and I have a virtualization class right now, but I'm honestly not understanding much because the class throws use in right into installing and configuring vSphere 5.5. I'll try to pass my class the best I can, but I want to know where to really start so I can get a true understanding and actually retain the knowledge. I'm more of a book person, but I don't know which book to get any recommendations? They don't have to be tied to any certification.

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Comments

Essendon

Scott Lowe's Mastering vSphere 5.5 is the best book out there for people with just about any level of expertise. Grab it, you wont find a better book. Other than this, there are dozens of blogs out there alongwith VMware's own documentation to get you going. Build a lab as you go to ensure the material sticks in your brain.

Arod95

Thanks I was actually looking into that book. I'll probably start labbing once I finish my security+ studies.

scott28tt

A good class instructor should give you that initial context before you start hitting Next to install anything...

GAB1900

scott28tt wrote: »

A good class instructor should give you that initial context before you start hitting Next to install anything...

I don't agree with that. If it was me starting, I'd get a book (or books) and understand the material before going to a class. They are expensive, and it is too much information for someone with no previous knowledge. I understand the conflict of interest here, but I'd leave the class after having some more experience to get the most out of it.

Verities

vSphere for Dummies is a great book for newbie to virtualization/VMware. Once you have the basic concepts/theory down, then I think you should read Scott Lowe's Mastering vSphere 5.5 book.

scott28tt

I'm no longer an active instructor, so there's no conflict of interest - but having worked as one for 15 years I stand by my comment.

Going into any class "cold" as a student is hard, but it's part of the instructor's job to provide any necessary context or level setting to give students the best chance of the learning being "sticky"...

jdancer

For a labbing environment, I suggest AutoLab at http://www.labguides.com/autolab. Takes the tedium out of installing a visualization data center.