VI3 IC v3.5 Rev A - 04 Networking.pptVIP

Module 4: Networking Importance and Module Objectives Importance The networking features of ESX Server allow virtual machines to communicate with other virtual machines within the same box and with the outside world, allow the service console to communicate, and allow the VMkernel to take advantage of IP-based storage and VMotion. Objectives for the learner Understand the purpose and configuration of virtual switches Create virtual switches and connections Understand virtual switch settings and policies Module Lessons Lesson 1: Create Virtual Switches Lesson 2: Modify Virtual Switch Configurations Lesson 1:CreateVirtual Switches Lesson Topics Structure of ESX Server networking Virtual switches Virtual switch connection types Physical connections A Networking Scenario Virtual Switches Virtual Switch Characteristics Example: One-Box Firewall Environment Virtual switch with one outbound adapter acts as a DMZ Back-end applications are secured behind the firewall using the internal-only switch Example: A High Performance Application Network Connections There are three types of network connections: Service console port – access to ESX Server management network VMkernel port – access to VMotion, iSCSI and/or NFS/NAS networks Virtual machine port group – access to VM networks More than one connection type can exist on a single virtual switch, or each connection type can exist on its own virtual switch Connection Type: Service Console Port Connection Type: VMkernel Port Connection Type: Virtual Machine Port Group Defining Connections A connection type is specified when creating a new virtual switch Parameters for the connection are specified during setup More connections can be added later Existing connections can be modified Naming Virtual Switches and Connections The virtual NIC on the service console is known as vswif0 All virtual switches are known as vSwitch# Every port or port group has a network label Service console ports are labelled Service Console, Service