Now available is the IBM System Storage N series with VMware vSphere

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Redbooks are a great way of learning a new technology or a reference for configuration.  I have used them for years not just in storage but for X series servers and for software like TSM.  The people that write the books spend a great deal of time putting them together and I believe most of them are written by volunteers. 

This is the third edition of this Redbook and if you have read this before here are some of the changes:

Updated information:

-Latest N series model and feature information.

-Updated the IBM Redbook to reflect VMware vSphere 4.1 environments

New information:

-Information for Virtual Storage Console 2.x has been added

This book on N series and VMware goes through the introduction of both the N series systems and VMware vSphere.  There are sections on installing the systems, deploying the LUNs and recovery.  After going through this Redbook, you will have a better understanding of a complete and protected VMware system.  If you need help with how to size your hardware there is a section for you. If you are looking to test how to run VMs over NFS, its in there too!

One of the biggest issues with virtual systems is making sure you have proper alignment between the system block and the storage array.  This will negatively impact the system by a factor of 2 in most random reads/writes as two blocks will be required for one request.  To avoid this costly mistake or to correct VMs you have already setup a section in the book called Partition alignment walks you through the entire process of correctly setting the alignment or fixing the older systems correctly.

Another area that I will point out is the use of deduplication, compression and cloning to drive the efficiency of the storage higher.  These software features allow customers to store more systems on the storage array than if they used traditional hard drives.  Also there is how to use snapshots for cloning, mirrors for Site Recovery Manager and long term storage aka Snapvaults.  At the end of the book are some examples of scripts one might use for snapshots in hot backup modes.

Whether you are a seasoned veteran or newbie to the VMware scene, there is a great guide that will help you from start to finish setting up your vSphere environment.  The information is there, use the search feature or sit down on a Friday with a high-lighter, which ever fits your style and learn a little about using a N series system with VMware.