Upgrading an ESXi host

Many environments have already adopted some level of virtualization. A datacenter design will most likely have to include the upgrading of the current infrastructure in order to leverage new features and functionality. Upgrading ESXi is a simple process, but it requires planning in order to ensure compatibility and support ability. Chapter 4, vSphere Management Design, provides details on upgrading vCenter Server; this recipe provides details on planning an upgrade of ESXi hosts.

ESXi 5.0, ESX 5.1, and ESXi 5.5 can be upgraded directly to ESXi 6. Earlier versions of ESX/ESXi must first be upgraded to 5.x before upgrading to ESXi 6.

How to do it…

When preparing to upgrade ESXi hosts, use the following steps:

  1. Identify the methods ...

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