VMware ESXi Reviews

ESXi is used to install multiple operating systems (OS) on a single server. It allows us to monitor these machines, view resource usage for each virtual machine, and adjust allocated resources like RAM, CPU, and hard disk. 

We can also easily back up these virtual machines. We use VMware vSphere to manage these virtual machines and Cisco UCS Manager to manage Cisco UCS servers.

The main function of ESXi is the ability to consolidate multiple machines onto a single server, saving space and energy. It also provides a single-user interface to monitor these machines and easily adjust resources or create backups as needed.

Integration Capabilities:

Integration within the VMware environment is not a problem. We can easily move a virtual machine from one ESXi host to another and back up a virtual machine to a different ESXi host.

If the price could be reduced, that would be good.

I think there should be a direct link for managing the OS side so we can open the web interface directly in the browser.

I have been using it for seven years now. 

I would rate the stability a nine out of ten. 

I would rate the scalability of ESXi an eight out of ten.  

Suitable for Enterprise:

ESXi is definitely suitable for enterprise and medium-sized companies. VMware Workstation is suitable for small and medium businesses.

I would rate VMware's technical support as six out of ten. The response time could be better.

We use different firewalls, switch servers, and proxy servers. The proxy server is Squid, installed on CentOS, a Linux operating system. We use PRTG Network Monitor to monitor network traffic.

We have our own data center with servers, and one of our servers uses VMware. We use VMware ESXi for server virtualization.

We use both VMware Workstation and ESXi, each with its own benefits. Workstation is installed on the operating system, while ESXi is installed directly on the hardware. I have been working with ESXi for seven years.

The initial setup for ESXi is a bit complex and takes a couple of hours.

We use a hybrid model for deployment.

The price of ESXi is high.

VMware ESXi is better than Microsoft Hyper-V.

Nowadays, Docker is considered to be better than virtual machines (VMs). I am not very familiar with Docker, but I have learned that it is superior in many ways.

I would rate ESXi an eight out of ten overall. I do recommend it to other users.

In our company, we use the solution for visualization for the servers to consolidate all the physical servers into virtualized machines.

Most of our organization's in-house developed applications reside within VMware ESXi. 

The solution brings monetary savings for our company because we use a single server, which is usually converted from ten physical servers. 

For instance, I can connect any Linux server to any host and then implement migration without affecting the server's user experience. When I migrate the virtual machine to another host, it takes only a few minutes while the VM is still running; shutting down is unnecessary. 

Presently, our company is using an old version of VMware ESXi; we are planning to upgrade to the latest version within the next year. The latest version of the solution runs on a cloud, and our company is looking forward to reaping the benefits from it. Some features should be added to the solution to enhance server management. 

I have been using VMware ESXi for six years. 

The solution is stable enough. 

It's a scalable solution. In our organization, we have three VMware ESXi users who work on visualization, including two network engineers and one system administrator. VMware ESXi was used to run 20 to 30 virtualized machines in our company, but presently, the count has been reduced to around 10 to 15 because most of the servers have already been migrated to the cloud. 

Whenever we sought support, an active response was received in a minimal amount of time. I would rate the tech support a ten out of ten. 

Positive

In our organization, we also tried using open-source virtualization tools like Proxmox and KVM. The aforementioned solutions lack certain features that can be found in VMware ESXi. But the licensing and support cost of VMware ESXi is huge in comparison to open source solutions, as they are free to use. 

The initial setup process for VMware ESXi is simple. A substantial amount of support and help is available from the vendor during the setup process. A lot of documentation is available for setting up VMware ESXi. 

For the solution's deployment in our company, we started from the vendor's initial design and then clustered the product. After the aforementioned step, the cluster was migrated to another server, a new cluster was created, and the deployment process was soon completed. About three to four professionals and a network engineer are required for the initial setup of VMware ESXi.

Our company's security team is also involved in the VMware ESXi deployment process to set up all the ports and the network needed. The solution's initial setup process takes about one week to complete. The one-week setup process in our company includes a testing period, with burnout testing and environment tests, such as physical and virtual machine transfer. 

In our company, we deploy VMware ESXi only after completing several tests. The solution's maintenance is quite easy, the hard drive just needs to be replaced when the storage is full.

The solution consolidates all of our organization's physical servers into a virtualized environment, which further improves server management. 

VMware ESXi allows the management of virtual networks within the servers; switches are not needed to patch any server to a network and allow any type of network transfer. 

After deploying the solution in our company, we have witnessed an improvement in server efficiency; there are minimal problems noticed in the servers. Most of the production services can be moved anywhere and virtualized machines can be transferred to clouds when VMware ESXi is being used. 

When one of the server's failed in our organization, VMware ESXi helped in disaster recovery by utilizing a new host. I am satisfied with the high availability and disaster recovery capabilities of the solution. 

I would advise others to check other virtualization hypervisor solutions before directly adopting VMware ESXi, as it is costly compared to other solutions. Our company is approached by two vendors, one of which is Nutanix. VMware ESXi is more cost-effective than Nutanix. Overall, I would rate VMware ESXi a nine out of ten. 

I am currently on the technical side, making connections so if reports are not working, I handle that. I have knowledge of ESXi, including making a VM and installing operating systems like Linux or Windows.

VMware ESXi has improved the efficiency of the software. It depends mostly on the specs of the virtual machine first created.

The most important features are having a lot of code and CPU threads to ensure the system doesn't lag, and the role of memory is important.

The software could be more user-friendly, allowing customers to easily find the resources and features they need.

I have been using VMware ESXi for less than a year.

I rate the stability of the solution as either nine or ten out of ten.

I rate the scalability about eight or nine out of ten. A lot of customers require this for virtual environments.

I rate the technical support from VMware as nine or ten out of ten.

Positive

The initial setup is straightforward and simple to understand. It takes about a day or two to set up the system completely.

We use vendor partners to set up according to customer requirements.

The solution is moderately priced, not exactly cheap yet not overly expensive either.

I recommend VMware ESXi because many customers prefer virtual environments over on-premises solutions due to efficiency and flexibility.

I'd rate the solution seven out of ten.

We are using VMware ESXi for running various kinds of applications in our environment that use virtual machines.

VMware ESXi provides a reliable and stable environment, which makes us confident in our IT operations. We rely on it particularly in production environments where reliability is crucial.

VMware ESXi is very reliable, especially for our production environment. The ability to collapse its vulnerabilities swiftly adds to its reliability. Hyper-threading is a feature we use extensively.

For horizontal scalability, VMware ESXi is not the right product, and we have been evaluating alternative options. There are also some complaints about the web interface and licensing issues after Broadcom's acquisition.

I have been working with VMware ESXi for more than ten years.

VMware ESXi provides a very stable environment, making it a reliable choice for our operations.

Vertical scalability with VMware ESXi is very achievable, allowing easy upgrades to physical components like CPU and RAM. However, its horizontal scalability is not as flexible.

We have received good service from VMware technical support, though the need for assistance has been infrequent.

Positive

I have not had a chance to explore many other solutions in comparison to VMware ESXi.

The initial setup process is not complex and can typically be done in a little more than one hour with the help of one resource.

We are considering moving to another product for better cost-effectiveness, which might improve our ROI.

From a cost perspective, we are not entirely satisfied with VMware ESXi.

We are considering Kubernetes or OpenShift as potential alternatives.

Technically, VMware ESXi is a mature product, and I would recommend it for reliable, stable environments.

ESXi with Hyper Converged Infrastructure and Horizon for hosting virtual machines. There is also AHT for VDI environments.

It's a bare-metal hypervisor, mainly used for hosting virtual machines. The applications vary based on customer requirements. It can be used for running applications, database connectivity, infrastructure applications like software-based networks or firewalls, and managing on-premises applications.

The most beneficial features for me are DRS and HA (High Availability). In case of an interruption at the OS level, they ensure the virtual machine automatically comes back up. 

Another benefit is load balancing with the DRS feature.

Apart from that, it's the main source for us as consultants or architects to manage the infrastructure.

We follow the best practices as per Broadcom and VMware, and we do timely patching on ESXi to ensure security.

The license model has recently changed, which is a bit worrying for customers.

The only other issue is that since changing the portal, downloading patches or images for maintenance or deployment has become slightly more difficult because engineers are facing issues. 

I have been using it for more than ten years now. 

It's very stable because we do regular maintenance. It is not difficult to maintain at all. 

It is a scalable product. That's the reason it's number one, even after a decade.

I get a good response, but in a few cases, I have experienced delayed responses. I'm not sure, but maybe it's because of the transfer to Broadcom.

So, there is a slight delay in getting the support. 

Neutral

VMware is a leader with the new features they introduce on every major release. But regarding licensing, when I talk to Nutanix, they give it for free. With the Hyper Converged solution, we have to pay additional charges based on the core count. But feature-wise, I don't see any additional features that other hypervisors have.

The complexity of the initial setup is fine. We've been doing it for a long time. Compared to other hypervisors, it's very good. On average, it should be around 30 minutes to an hour.

Currently, we use version 7.0. We may upgrade to 8.0, but that will take a few months.

Deployment process: It's all internal discussions based on the load. We select the hardware vendor and do the installation via the ISO image. We do the configuration part ourselves. I take care of the ESXi infrastructure once the parts are delivered to the site.

I would recommend using it b, but it depends on their interest and budget.

Overall, I would rate it a nine out of ten. 

The product is very reliable. People prefer VMware because it does not work on networks. It works on FC. It checks the availability of all the hosts using the logical unit number. That is why we recommend the solution to the customers. If the network or module restarts or the cable is disconnected from the host, it does not impact VMware.

VMware is very costly.

I have been using the solution for more than 15 years.

The tool is very stable.

We are a bank. We have approximately 2000 branches in Pakistan and all over the world. Our bank’s production area is working on VMware in Pakistan.

We contact support. We have a corporate portal. The support is very good.

The initial setup is very easy.

The tool is costlier than any hypervisor.

Hyper-V is a free product. Once we install a data center version, Hyper-V is free. I have used many hypervisors like VMware, Hyper-V, Nutanix, and Oracle VM. All are good products.

Most people do not know why VMware is more stable than Hyper-V. Our clients use Webex after version 6.5. Before, we installed VMware Client and connected to the vCenter server. The vCenter server was connected to the vCenter host. There were a lot of version and service issues with vCenter. Things have been better after we installed Webex.

The cost is very important. We have to buy the latest hardware and licenses. The license is very costly. The vendor might discontinue the perpetual license. The tool will become more costly. Customers will leave VMware and choose Hyper-V. The vendor must rethink the price. We can learn to use the solution through YouTube videos. Beginners can use the tool, but we must learn and better know the product. It is a very good product.

Overall, I rate the tool an eight out of ten.

Our organization uses VMware ESXi for server management, specifically focusing on the ESXi and vMotion features. We use it because we have a lot of services that require server management, including financial and enterprise solutions. The use of VMware ESXi helps us support private and public sectors in our enterprise level organization.

VMware ESXi enables us to deliver services to customers more efficiently. It facilitates centralized monitoring and collaboration, and helps us manage our ERP system, which is integrated with our IT infrastructure. ESXi also aids in server management, allowing us to comply with customer standards and ensure operational efficiency.

ESXi's server management capabilities are incredibly beneficial, as it supports software integration with Windows servers and other essential systems. 

Furthermore, features like vMotion significantly improve operational efficiency by allowing seamless resource allocations.

There are concerns about VMware changing their licensing model from perpetual to a subscription model. This has led some customers to reconsider using VMware ESXi due to increased expenses and operational complexities.

We have been using ESXi for around three years within our organization's environment.

We have not faced any significant stability issues with VMware ESXi. It operates smoothly in our environment.

We have not encountered any scalability issues with VMware ESXi. The system effectively supports our operational needs without limitations.

For any issues that we cannot resolve internally, we escalate them to the global technical support team. Their timely assistance helps us address issues quickly and efficiently.

Positive

We are currently using software-only technology and do not rely on hypervisor or on-premise solutions. My previous experience also includes working with different VMware services.

The initial setup of VMware ESXi involves multiple teams to ensure comprehensive integration and security considerations, whether cloud or on-premise. 

It requires alignment and collaboration across teams to ensure proper server implementation.

Our organization relies on various internal teams, including procurement, vendor management, and technical teams, for implementation. This ensures a smooth deployment and operational process.

Currently, I am leading a project focused on cost-saving and optimization, leveraging technology for financial benefits within the organization.

The cost of VMware ESXi revolves around its licensing model. It would be beneficial to purchase licenses tailored specifically to our use needs, to reduce costs and improve performance.

I recommend VMware ESXi due to its virtualization capabilities and security features. It is effective for enhancing service delivery and should be considered by other users for server management needs.

I'd rate the solution eight out of ten.

I use the solution in my company for hosting machines and storage.

In our data center operations, the tool is used just as a server for computing, storage, and networking.

The most valuable features of the solution are that it is efficient, fast, and affordable.

I think the tool can do better in terms of pricing.

The tool offers an open-source version, which is not really well supported.

I have been using VMware ESXi for five years.

It is a very stable solution.

The solution's scalability part is a bit tough, but I think it is due to our own implementation. It is a bit difficult currently. In terms of scalability, there are other ways of scaling it, like setting multiple nodes, and all that, but we are not that advanced. In our company, we don't set it up. I think in terms of scalability, it is limitless.

There are 100 users with two appliances in my company.

I have not contacted technical support for the solution.

I have tried a few other tools.

The product's initial setup phase is quite simple, and I think anybody can do it.

You just purchase the server, and then you do the installation. To purchase the server, you have to look through the hardware compatibility list and make sure the equipment is all supported. There are enough available drivers for it. Once it is approved, you can download the installation package and then put it in. After that, you do the patching. Whatever patches that need to be updated and just put it in.

The solution is deployed on an on-premises model.

The solution can be deployed in around four hours.

Two people were needed for deployment.

The tool was deployed with the help of an in-house team.

The tool is cost-effective.

Broadcom recently purchased VMware, and the pricing scheme has changed. If I need any more features in the tool, I can actually purchase them. If the product includes it in the current base package, it will be good. If not, then I will have to purchase it.

Compared to other tools, VMware ESXi is more stable than the other offerings. I think the support from the parent company is good, and it releases patches quite often, so it is better supported.

The feature or the functionality of the tool is good for virtualizing everything.

The tool is able to offer protection requirements and helps the organization's compliance and data as there are frequent patches being released, which are well supported.

My company does not use any AI initiatives for the product at the moment.

The tool's maintenance is easy.

I recommend the tool to others. Everyone should follow the tool's documentation.

I rate the tool a nine out of ten.

The solution is the hypervisor in our clients' IT infrastructures, serving as the foundational platform for their virtual environments.

This solution has significantly enhanced efficiency by enabling the consolidation of multiple servers onto a single host, optimizing resource usage and overall performance.

The platform's most valuable features include its role within the vSphere suite, requiring a vCenter Server for management. ESXi alone is just a hypervisor; effective management and optimization are achieved through clusters and vCenter Server.

The main challenge for the product concerns hardware choices, such as customers opting for cheaper CPUs and memory.

There is always potential for further refinement, such as improving the web interface or fine-tuning advanced settings.

I have worked with VMware ESX since its initial release, around 2001 to 2003.

I rate the solution's stability a ten. 

The solution's scalability is ten out of ten.

The technical support was excellent when VMware was part of Dell. Since the transition to Broadcom, I have yet to have the opportunity to assess the current support quality.

The initial setup is straightforward and typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. However, additional customizations can be extended at this time.

The full deployment of the solution generally takes a few hours, depending on the customer's specific requirements.

The product pricing was reasonable before, but recent changes, including bundling, have complicated the cost structure. While prices were reduced, additional features have led to higher overall costs.

I rate VMware ESXi a ten out of ten. 

An insurance company uses the solution to optimize its hardware. It can virtualize and run multiple applications on three servers that use VMware ESXi virtualization. More than 50 virtual servers are run on the three Cisco hosts. They use VMware Horizon for desktop visualization.

VMware ESXi provides high availability and a good web interface. The VMware vCenter, included in VMware ESXi, helps us manage our infrastructure. With VMware vCenter, you can manage and administer every other virtual machine and Cisco host.

VMware should make recovering the password easier if customers forget it. Since everything is being containerized and moved to the cloud, VMware ESXi should keep on improving to meet up with the current technology trend.

I have been using VMware ESXi for more than ten years.

VMware ESXi is a very stable solution.

I rate the solution’s stability a nine out of ten.

VMware ESXi is a scalable solution. Our clients for VMware ESXi are mostly medium-sized businesses.

I rate the solution’s scalability a nine out of ten.

The solution’s technical support is very good and helps resolve any issues.

Positive

Once you have gone through the training, the solution's initial setup is very easy. The deployment takes approximately three to four days.

The solution's deployment time depends on the number of virtual machines created and the physical infrastructure. It's a straightforward process. Before you deploy the solution, you need to analyze the risks involved and how to mitigate them if you encounter any during the course of deployment. You need to do a proper assessment of the environment and customer requirements to ensure that whatever you are deploying will address such requirements.

You should also create room for upgrades. Suppose a customer needs additional capacity because they have acquired a new application that needs more resources. If you don't increase room, you will have to acquire new hardware to add on or do an upgrade immediately. Everything should be planned for the next three years' utilization. If you do it properly, everything will work out perfectly.

The solution saved our customers money and time. Initially, they had to purchase new hardware to launch a new application. With VMware ESXi, they have been able to launch applications without buying new infrastructure. The solution helps them to launch a new application without going through the procurement process of six months to one year.

VMware ESXi is a costly solution in Africa and other developing countries. The initial acquisition cost may be between $ 20,000 to $ 30,000, depending on the number of servers clustered together.

Providing security is a continuous process because no client or vendor is 100% secure. VMware ESXi hasn't created any security loopholes so far. Once we follow the best practice and do the normal patching from time to time, you can upgrade the patches and eliminate any lapses. VMware always comes with regular patchups on the infrastructure.

I would recommend VMware ESXi to other users because it is a good solution, and its support is fantastic and far better than most other OEMs.

Overall, I rate the solution a nine out of ten.