Video

Notes

After successfully installing ESXi on your server, the next crucial step is configuring the host through the Direct Console User Interface (DCUI). This guide walks you through the essential initial configuration steps to get your ESXi host properly connected to your network.

Accessing the DCUI

  1. Press Enter at the virtual console to access the DCUI
  2. Press F2 to log in
  3. Enter the root password configured during installation

Configuring Network Management Settings

Network Adapter Selection

  1. Navigate to “Configure Management Network”
  2. Select “Network Adapters”
  3. Verify the correct network adapter (default: vmnic0)

VLAN Configuration (If Required)

  • Access VLAN settings if using 802.1Q tagging
  • Enter your VLAN ID if required
  • Skip if using native VLAN

IPv4 Configuration

  1. Select “IPv4 Configuration”
  2. Choose “Set static IPv4 address and network configuration”
  3. Configure the following:
    • IP Address: 192.168.1.102 (or your desired address)
    • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 (24-bit)
    • Default Gateway: 192.168.1.1 (your network gateway)

IPv6 Configuration

  1. Navigate to IPv6 settings
  2. Disable IPv6 if not in use (recommended for simplified management)
    • Note: This will require a host reboot

DNS Configuration

  1. Select “DNS Configuration”
  2. Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses and hostname”
  3. Configure:
    • Primary DNS: 192.168.1.100
    • Secondary DNS: 8.8.8.8
    • Hostname: ESXi-2.zerotohero.dev
  4. Add custom DNS suffix:
    • Enter your domain (e.g., zerotohero.dev)
    • This enables proper name resolution within your network

Testing Network Configuration

From DCUI

  1. Select “Test Management Network”
  2. The test will verify:
    • Default gateway connectivity
    • DNS server connectivity
    • Hostname resolution
    • Basic network functionality

From Management Computer

Verify DNS configuration using nslookup:

nslookup esxi-2.zerotohero.dev
# Should return 192.168.1.102

nslookup 192.168.1.102
# Should return esxi-2.zerotohero.dev

Important DNS Considerations

Proper DNS configuration is crucial for:

  • Overall system functionality
  • Integration with vCenter
  • Smooth operation of vSphere architecture
  • Preventing future complications

Best Practices:

  • Always verify both forward and reverse DNS lookups
  • Ensure DNS is properly configured before proceeding with additional setup
  • Test name resolution from multiple network points
  • Document DNS settings for future reference

Next Steps

After completing the DCUI configuration:

  1. Apply changes and allow the host to reboot if required
  2. Verify all network settings post-reboot
  3. Proceed to accessing the ESXi host via web browser
  4. Continue with additional configuration as needed

Remember that taking time to properly configure and verify these initial settings, especially DNS, will save significant troubleshooting time later in your deployment process.

Note: This guide assumes you’re working in a lab or similar environment. Production environments may require additional security considerations and configuration steps.