In this configuration, the Virtual Server Agent and MediaAgent are both installed in Hot-Add mode. The backup destination is typically network based (CIFS/NFS) or another vmfs datastore and tape out options are very limited. Shared storage is required for HotAdd mode backups of virtual machines living on other ESX Server hosts.
This configuration provides performance that is comparable to SAN transport, without requiring additional physical servers.
When to Use
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All virtual environment where physical servers are not preferred.
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Each MA can write directly to a mount point presented to the virtual machine
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When there is a need to segregate backup and production traffic on the network.
When Not to Use
- Direct backup to tape is required.