What does a .vmtx file represent in a datastore?

A .vmtx file represents a template configuration within a datastore. This file format is specifically used for virtual machine templates in VMware environments. A template is a master image of a virtual machine, which can be used to clone or deploy multiple virtual machines quickly and easily while maintaining consistent settings.

When an administrator creates a template from a virtual machine, this file holds the core configuration and settings needed for the template deployment, such as hardware specifications, OS configuration, and other custom settings. As a result, using .vmtx files simplifies the process of replication and deployment of virtual machines, enhancing efficiency within a virtualized infrastructure.

In contrast, virtual disk characteristics would be associated with .vmdk files, snapshots with .vmsn or .vmsd files, and virtual machine configurations with .vmx files. Understanding the specific role of each file type is crucial for effective management and deployment of VMware environments.