Symantec is set to unleash a new management plug-in for VMware vCenter that integrates with Backup Exec. It’s designed to make it easy to protect VMware environments, while also reducing the risk and complexity involved with VM backups. Read on for the value-add for VARs …

Set for early January 2011, the new plug-in lets backups in virtualization environments get smarter and more granular, while controlling everything inside the vCenter Server or vSphere Client console. Of course, it’s designed to work with the “core” Backup Exec virtualization features so customers can get a single at-a-glance view of last-run backups, the type of backup that was done, granular details on the backup job logs, and news on unprotected virtual machines.

Assuming the plugin really works as advertised, VARs and partners could benefit: Backup Exec Management Plug-in for VMware can be added without any charge to customers already using Backup Exec 2010 Agent for VMware Infrastructure. Beyond a simple value-add, in-house IT admins can further design and implement a data solution for any virtual environment they have laid out across the enterprise or business, Symantec claims.

Sign up for The VAR Guy’s Weekly Newsletter, Webcasts and Resource Center. Follow The VAR Guy via RSS, Facebook and Twitter. Follow experts at VARtweet. Read The VAR Guy’s editorial disclosures here.