Add file-based resources to the VMM library

After you've set up the System Center Virtual Machine Manager (VMM) library, use this article if you want to add file-based resources to the library and mark objects in the library as equivalent.

You can add file-based resources to the library as follows:

• Copy files to the share in the VMM console
• Import and export file-based resources between library shares
• Copy files to the library share from outside the VMM console

1. Go to Library > Library Servers.
2. Right-click a library share > Explore.
3. Copy files to the share.

1. Select Library > Import Physical Resource.
2. Select whether to import a resource or custom resources, select the destination library server, share, and optionally a folder. Select OK > Import. Verify the import in Library Servers > target location > Physical Library Objects.
3. To export, select Export Physical Resource.
4. Right-click a library share > Explore. Select the resources you want to export (select and hold the SHIFT key for multiple), and select OK. Select a destination folder and select OK > Export.
5. Copy files to the share.

You can group library resources together, so they're considered equivalent. Then when you create templates and profiles and point to a specific virtual disk on a library share, VMM can substitute any equivalent object when a VM or service is created. This means you can author templates and profiles without relying on specific physical resources, and resources can be serviced without affecting the template and profile availability.

VMM supports virtual disks, .iso images, and custom resources as equivalent objects. Equivalent resources must be the same file type.

You'll need to be an admin, delegated admin, or self-service user to mark objects as equivalent. Delegated admins can mark on library shares within their scope. Self-service users can mark objects in their user role data path.

1. Select Library > Library servers.
2. For admins and delegated admins, the Library Server column indicates the location of each resource. Self-service users must expand Self Service User Content > Type to sort library resources.
3. Right-click the resources > Mark Equivalent.
4. In Equivalent Library Objects, enter the family name and release value to create a new equivalent set, or select a family name to add to an existing set. Objects must have the same family name, release value, and namespace (automatically assigned by VMM) to be equivalent.

Learn about adding profiles to the VMM library.