Chapter 7. Networking

As mentioned in Chapter 1, “System Considerations,” there are certain best practices in relation to networking, particularly the physical network interface card (pNIC) count associated with ESX. We look at networking in more detail to explain the capabilities of ESX in this arena. In this chapter, I begin with some of the basic building blocks that make up a network. Then I turn to network definitions. Discussion of a network requirements checklist follows. Next, some brief examples of networks are presented. Finally, I spend a little time on the subject of configuration.

Basic Building Blocks

In the physical world, there are basic building blocks to a network, and this does not change in the virtual world. The most basic ...

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