IBM and VMware have a longstanding history of collaboration. As a VMware Technology Alliance Partner, IBM has supported VMware environments for decades. VMware was founded in 1998, and the beginning of IBM Storage Virtualize dates back to the early 2000s. IBM Storage is deployed within the VMware Reference Architectures Lab—demonstrating the deep integration between the two platforms.

A major focus of the conversation in Toronto centered on data resiliency, particularly around IBM FlashCore Module 4 (FCM4) and its ability to detect data corruption as it happens, allowing organizations to take action sooner and minimize impact. That early detection is critical—it gives organizations the opportunity to respond quickly and limit potential damage, which is top of mind to our users. Learn more about the revolutionary capabilities of IBM Storage FlashSystem + IBM Storage Insights PRO detecting potential Ransomware attack in less than 60 seconds here. 

Also showcased was IBM Storage Insights Pro, which lets clients manage a single system or a fleet of IBM FlashSystems and integrates seamlessly with FCM4. See a quick demonstration of how Storage Insights Pro integrates with IBM FlashSystem's FCM4 alerting here.

The team also discussed how IBM FlashSystem’s built-in threat detection can be automatically integrated into IBM Storage Defender’s Data Resilience Service. When IBM Storage Insights Pro flags a threat, IBM Storage Defender can register it against which potential VMs are under threat and take an emergency Safeguarded Copy. For those looking to go deeper, there's an excellent IBM Redpaper available with more details on IBM Storage Defender Data Resiliency Service (DRS).

Thank you to everyone who attended and joined in the discussion. IBM FlashSystem will be at more VMUG events in the future—keep an eye out for one near you!