What does a file with a .vmtx extension represent in a datastore?

A file with a .vmtx extension represents a template configuration within a datastore. This type of file is specifically used for VMware virtual machine templates. A template is essentially a master copy of a virtual machine that contains the virtual hardware configuration and software settings without the need for the operational overhead of running an instance.

Using a .vmtx file allows administrators to deploy new virtual machines quickly and uniformly, leveraging the properties defined in the template while simplifying management and ensuring consistency across multiple instances. This is particularly useful in environments where multiple virtual machines require similar configurations.

In contrast, .vmx files are used for regular virtual machine configurations that are currently powered on or off, while snapshots, which are temporary states of a virtual machine, utilize different file formats. Virtual disk characteristics are represented by .vmdk files, which store the actual disk data of virtual machines. Therefore, .vmtx files play a critical role in streamlining the process of virtual machine deployment and management in a VMware environment.