ABSTRACT
Several methods exist for performing file level and full image backups of virtual machines. Third party backup tools can be used in the same manner as they are used to perform backup jobs on physical machines. These tools often employ the use of agents installed in the guest operating system. Agents provide the benefit of automating the backup job. Refer to the Backup Software Compatibility Guide for ESX Server 3.5 and ESXi for a list of the supported third party tools. This document can be found at the following location:
https://www.vmware.com/pdf/vi35_backup_guide.pdf
The downside of using agents is cost. An average cost per agent is typically between $500 to $1,000. This can become quite costly when backing up a large number of virtual machines. Agents also require the virtual machine to be up and running for the agent to perform its backup operation.
