Core vSphere APIs
VMware vSphere virtual infrastructure supports a user interface for automated
management of remote vSphere assets. Many vSphere APIs address different functional areas.
Two vSphere APIs support core functions of vSphere management.
The core functional areas can be viewed as
configuration and management of hosts, virtual machines, and networks, as well as
storage at an abstract level. The two core APIs that address these functional areas
complement each other both in function and in design principles. Use the two APIs
together to achieve complete functionality.
The vSphere Automation API applies REST
design principles using JSON-based wire protocols, while the VIM API applies RPC
principles using a SOAP protocol. In general, the Automation API offers a simpler
design, while the VIM API offers better compatibility with older vSphere releases.