Muller A., Wilson S., Happe D. Virtualization With VMware ESX Server / Section 2.4. Summary

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Virtualization With VMware ESX Server
Authors: Muller A., Wilson S., Happe D.
Published year: 2005
Pages: 22-25/173

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2.4. Summary

This chapter primarily covered the default and recommended method for installing ESX Server: the graphical installer method. This is a very good method for getting used to the requirements of an ESX Server build as well as the outcome of what a successful build should be. However, if you are building a large number of ESX Servers all on the same physical platform, you may want to script your installation method. If you are a command-line junkie, feel free to use the command-line method.

The important issue is getting a build process that you're comfortable with and are able to repeat, which produces a stable ESX Server build. Documenting this process is essential to the repeatability , even if you're scripting your installation. Once you're comfortable with your build process, we suggest repeating it until you have it down. By stepping through it numerous times, you may find certain changes or tweaks you may want to include. Document those and the reason for the change. This will prove handy later when reviewing the build document.

Building a solid ESX Server allows you stability, which is a main component of your new virtual infrastructure. Document the procedure and take the time to build it right.

2.5. Solutions Fast Track

2.5.1.

2.5.1.1. Pre-installation Tasks

Obtain all necessary IP information for your ESX Server

Gather all installation media and licensing information for your ESX Server

Set the hardware time of your ESX Server in its BIOS

2.5.1.2. Performing the Installation

We recommend going through the installation process repeatedly, changing certain default selections to become familiar with the outcome.

Documentation of your ESX Server build for future reference is essential.

Make your changes, break the ESX Server, and then rebuild it.

Report errors during your install to VMware using its tools.

2.5.1.3. Post-installation Tasks

Update your ESX Server build documentation

Ensure network connectivity of your ESX Server (using ping to another node will work)

Remove all install media from your ESX Server

2.6. Frequently Asked Questions

The following Frequently Asked Questions, answered by the authors of this book, are designed to both measure your understanding of the concepts presented in this chapter and to assist you with real-life implementation of these concepts. To have your questions about this chapter answered by the author, browse to www.syngress.com/solutions and click on the " Ask the Author " form. You will also gain access to thousands of other FAQs at ITFAQnet.com.

Q : Is any installation method better than any other?

A : No. Whichever installation method you're comfortable with and that produces a good build is the one for you.

Q : I'm having problems with my installation. What should I do?

A : Ensure that the hardware you're loading ESX Server on is supported. The same goes for the configuration. If you are certain the hardware and configuration are supported, then run the vm-support script mentioned previously.

Q : Why does this chapter include only the graphical installer method?

A : It's the recommended installation method from VMware and one that many in the x86-world are the most comfortable with. If you wish to try it another way, VMware offers a very complete installation document covering the various installation methodologies.