Class 12 VMware clone and template overview
In VMware, cloning creates an exact copy of a virtual machine (VM), while a template is a master copy used for creating new VMs. Cloning allows you to duplicate an existing VM with all its settings, whereas a template is designed to be a reusable blueprint for new VMs.
VM Templates:
Master Copy:
A template is a master image of a VM, including disks, devices, and settings.
Reusable:
It's a reusable blueprint for creating multiple VMs without needing to recreate everything from scratch.
Independent:
Once a VM is created from a template, it's independent of the template and can be customized without affecting the template.
Power Off:
Templates cannot be powered on or directly edited.
VM Clones:
Exact Copy:
Cloning creates a complete, independent copy of a VM.
Same Configuration:
Clones inherit all the hardware, software, and settings of the original VM.
Customization:
You can customize clones after creation, but it won't affect the original VM.
Storage:
Clones can be stored at the cluster level for accessibility across multiple hosts.