Eric Sloof recently wrote about FabulaTech, which has a product called USB Over Network. This is a very nice software based client/server application that turns a PC with a USB device connected into a USB host - you can then install the client piece on your Virtual Machine to connect to the hosted USB connection.

Digi also has a product called AnywhereUSB, it pretty much does the same thing but without the need of a host machine, you plug your USB device into the AnywhereUSB appliance (very small 5 port USB hub) and install the client piece on your Virtual Machine, the connection is made over a 10/100 ethernet line.  I’ve used a couple dozen of these for software that requires a USB License Key, never having a problem with any of them.

Posted under ESX 3.5 Tips, ESXi 3.5 Tips, Hyper-V

Jason Boche posted this network diagram on VI3, it shows exactly what ports VC, ESX and other services needed for a functioning enterprise use.   This diagram is extremely helpful in troubleshooting network issues and also in helping put your companies security department at ease.  Thanks Jason!

Click to Enlarge

Posted under ESX 3.5 Tips, ESXi 3.5 Tips, Networking, Security, VMware