This chapter focuses on many of the basic concepts and benefits of virtualization. It provides a quick overview of VMware virtualization, introduces the virtual data center architect, and lays some of the groundwork necessary for creating and implementing a successful virtual data center design using VMware vSphere 6.7.

We will also explore the VMware Certified Advanced Professional 6-Data Center Virtualization Design (VCAP6-DCV Design) exam and the new VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX) certification, including a few tips that should help you prepare to successfully complete the exam and certification. Then, we will look over some of the new features of vSphere 6.7. This section will include where to find the current release notes and the latest vSphere product documentation. Finally, we will take a high-level look at the process for planning an upgrade to an existing vSphere deployment to vSphere 6.7.

In this chapter, we will cover the following recipes:

• Becoming a virtual data center architect
• Using a holistic approach to data center design
• Passing the VMware VCAP6-DCV Design exam
• Becoming a VMware Certified Design Expert
• Identifying what's new in vSphere 6.7
• Planning a vSphere 6.7 upgrade