VMWare - What do I need?

[jmair]

I would like to use Vmware vCenter to convert simple servers on my network into VM machines that can all run from one server. What software do I need to run 5-10 VM machines simultaneously?

[Chuckster]

You need this: VMware vCenter Converter: P2V Virtual Machine Converter

 

I haven't done it for years, but from what I can remember you just need to point the newly converted image to the VMware host. I can't remember if you need to install the converter on each physical machine you want converting, or you simply install it on one machine and point it to the several machines you want to P2V.

[3s-gtech]

You install the converter on a central machine (which can be Windows based) point it at the source and destination and off it goes. Obviously, the other software you'll need is ESXi/vSphere.

[mikkydoos]

You install the converter on a central machine (which can be Windows based) point it at the source and destination and off it goes. Obviously, the other software you'll need is ESXi/vSphere.

 

You can convert to different disk file formats that will work on other hypervisors too.

[jmair]

Wait. This is a free Solution???? I thought I would have to buy something. I'll take a look at both, thank you! And I never heard of vSphere, this is all 100% new to me. Thanks guys!

[mikkydoos]

The converter is free.

 

If you're doing this in a professional environment you certainly do want to be paying for your VM Hypervisor. Stuff like Virtualbox and VMWare Workstation are not going to work for you.

 

ESXi, VSphere are all VMWare products and work in conjunction with each other.

[ColinP]

If you have windows servers have you thought about Hyper-V It Part of windows server and the free tool to convert physical machines https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn873998(v=ws.11).aspx