Recently, I had an opportunity to install and configure SRM in a test lab, as part of a project related to a datacenter move. VMware Site Recovery Manager is THE tool to utilize when you’re looking to create an automated solution for disaster recovery. One great thing about SRM is that it can be used for a move project, or for a DR project, so those who are planning a move of their virtual environment actually will get double the value out of their licensing purchases.
Here are the details of the environment I’ve setup…
- 2 ESX hosts running ESX 3.5U4
- 2 VC servers (each with one of the above hosts connected to it)
- 2 EMC Clariion Storage arrays (one zoned to each host)
- Powerpath installed on the CX arrays, SRM licensing on the VC servers
This effectively creates me a production site, and a DR/move site. Using a great install/configure document at VIOPS: Proven Practice site , the setup and configuration of Mirrorview (replication for the Clariion storage array), the Clariion Storage Replication adapter, and SRM were a breeze. I definitely learned a few “gotchas” along the way, and plan to share them in future posts. One thing I’ll mention now is that SRM is only as good as the replication happening in the background. VMware works very closely with the various different storage vendors to develop the replication adapters that actually get SRM and the storage arrays communicating. Consult with your storage vendor beforehand to ensure that your array is supported with SRM. Being that I was working with EMC gear, I did not run into any support issues.
Once everything was setup and working I was able to create a quick recovery plan, test the plan, and then run the plan, all in a matter of minutes. After working through a few issues, SRM performed as expected and migrated my VMs from a production site to a DR site.
I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet tried SRM out to go to www.vmware.com and download the trial licensing. Set it up in your test environment and gauge whether or not it has any value for you and your organization as a DR enabler. As always, the VMware Communities is a great resource for anyone setting up SRM who might run into an issue. Lastly, keep in mind that SRM is not yet supported when running vSphere. A point release is due out later this year that will add support.
