As companies look to move SQL Server to VMware environments, they soon face the challenge of how to provide high availability protection. The problem is that Windows Server Failover Clustering requires shared storage, so in VMware environments you need to use Raw Device Mapping to give VMs direct access to the SAN. RDM limits your ability to use important VMware features such as vMotion, snapshots, and Virtual Consolidated Backup.
A simple solution is to add SANLess clustering software, such as SIOS DataKeeper Cluster Edition, to your WSFC. It uses efficient block level replication to synchronize local storage to appear to WSFC as a shared disk without the need for RDM. You get high availability protection without sacrificing VMware features, flexibility or performance.
I discussed this easy strategy and provided a brief demonstration in a recent webinar:
High Availability for SQL in VMware without Raw Device Mapping (On Demand Recording)
You may also be interested in viewing the following Clustering 101 webinar hosted by Microsoft Cluster MVP, Dave Bermingham: