vSphere allows for a large number of different guest operating systems to be run at the same time, but on different virtual machines. The following list provides some basic guidelines for running virtual machines with different guest operating systems:

• Keep the variations minimal for each guest operating system. This approach simplifies administration and troubleshooting.
• Use standardized templates for the installation of each key application and guest operating system.
• Use standard sizing for virtual machines. This approach simplifies administration, troubleshooting, and chargeback.