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:
Identify the methods available to upgrade ESXi.
Verify hardware and firmware compatibility using the VMware Hardware Compatibility List at http://www.vmware.com/go/hcl.
How it works…
The following methods are available to upgrade ESXi:
Interactive upgrade: An interactive...
