How does VDDK compare with vStorage APIs for Data Protection?
The vStorage APIs for Data Protection (VADP) is a backup framework that enables off-host, efficient, centralized backup and restore of vSphere virtual machines. The VDDK is focused on efficient access and transfer of data on virtual disk storage. It is one of the two key components of vStorage APIs for Data Protection. The VDDK can be used in conjunction with other key VADP component (vSphere SDK) as a framework to enable efficient backup and restore of vSphere virtual machines. The VMware vSphere API is a Web Service and XML interface focused on management of virtual machines and ESX server configuration.