Video

Notes

Setting up a new ESXi host requires careful planning and consideration of various hardware and software components. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps and considerations for installing VMware ESXi on a Dell rack server.

Hardware Overview

Our setup consists of a Dell rack server (specifically an R630) with the following components:

  • Multiple network interface cards (NICs)
  • CPU and RAM
  • Internal 1TB SSD drive
  • USB ports (both on the motherboard and front panel)
  • VGA port for monitor connection
  • iDRAC capability for remote management

Network Configuration Plan

For this installation, we’ll be configuring the following network settings:

  • Management Network: 192.168.1.0/24
  • Server IP Address: 192.168.1.102
  • Server Hostname: ESXi-2.ogit.com

Installation Media Strategy

We’ll be using a dual-USB approach for the installation:

  1. Source Drive: 64GB USB drive on the front panel

    • Will contain the ESXi installation ISO
    • Prepared using Rufus tool
    • Serves as the boot drive during installation

  2. Target Drive: 32GB USB drive on the motherboard

    • Will host the ESXi operating system
    • Different size from source drive for easy identification
    • Mounted internally for security

Pre-Installation Requirements

1. BIOS Configuration

  • Enable UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface)
  • Verify boot settings to support USB boot

2. Installation Media Preparation

  • Download ESXi version 8 ISO from VMware
  • Download and install Rufus tool
  • Use Rufus to properly format the 64GB USB drive with the ISO image

3. Hardware Compatibility Verification

  • Check VMware’s Compatibility Guide
  • Verify server model compatibility with ESXi 8
  • Confirm support for:
    • CPU model
    • Storage controllers
    • Network adapters
    • Other critical components

Management Access Options

Physical Access

  • VGA port available for monitor connection
  • USB ports for keyboard connection
  • Primarily used for initial setup if needed

Remote Management

  • Dell iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller)
  • Connected to management network
  • Provides:
    • Remote console access
    • Virtual keyboard and monitor
    • Complete server control without physical presence

Storage Configuration

The server includes:

  • Primary storage: 1TB SSD in the front bay
  • Multiple additional drive bays available for expansion
  • USB boot drive on motherboard for ESXi installation

Physical Installation Notes

The Dell R630 features:

  • Rail-mounted design for easy access
  • Top cover with security latch
  • Multiple front-accessible drive bays
  • Sound dampening options for datacenter noise reduction
  • Easy access to internal components for maintenance

Next Steps

After completing the planning phase, the next stage involves:

  1. Preparing the installation media with Rufus
  2. Configuring BIOS settings
  3. Beginning the actual ESXi installation process
  4. Configuring network settings
  5. Verifying system functionality

Remember to always verify hardware compatibility and maintain proper documentation of your configuration choices throughout the installation process.

Note: This guide is based on a specific Dell R630 server configuration. Your hardware specifications and requirements may vary.