In vLCM, you define a single target image for a cluster. This image consists of the VMware Base Image (the patch level), an HPE Vendor Addon , and optional independent components.
🔄 Method 1: The Modern Way — vSphere Lifecycle Manager (vLCM)
There are two primary methods to apply patches to an ESXi host running an HPE custom image: utilizing VMware vSphere Lifecycle Manager (vLCM) or manually compiling a patched image via the Command Line Interface (CLI). Method 1: vSphere Lifecycle Manager (Recommended)
What specific (e.g., Gen10, Gen11) are you using? hpe custom image for esxi patched
Every HPE Custom Image is rigorously tested by both HPE and VMware engineering teams. Using these images ensures your hosts remain fully compliant with the VMware Compatibility Guide (VCG) and the HPE Product QuickSpecs, preventing unexpected purple screens of death (PSOD) during routine operational scaling. Understanding the Components: Base Image vs. Patches
Download the . Mount the ISO via iLO and boot the server.
For standalone hosts unmanaged by vCenter, you must use the ESXi command line interface ( esxcli ) to apply patches while preserving the HPE customization layer. In vLCM, you define a single target image for a cluster
Evacuate all virtual machines from the host and trigger maintenance mode: esxcli system maintenanceMode set --enable true Use code with caution. Step 4: Execute the Dry-Run Patch
Always update firmware (BIOS, iLO, Smart Array) using HPE SPP before patching ESXi with HPE custom VIBs.
An HPE Custom Image is not a modified version of the ESXi kernel. It is a curated bundle containing the vanilla VMware ESXi base image along with specific HPE software packages known as vSphere Installation Bundles (VIBs) or vSphere Component packages. Component Breakdown Understanding the Components: Base Image vs
esxcli software sources profile list -d /vmfs/volumes/your-datastore/VMware-ESXi-patch-bundle.zip Use code with caution. Execute the update using the designated profile name:
Download the required VMware ESXi patch offline bundle ( .zip ) and upload it to a local datastore accessible by the host. Place the host in Maintenance Mode: esxcli system maintenanceMode set --enable true Use code with caution.
Log into the ESXi Host Client, enable SSH under services, and place the host into Maintenance Mode. Step 2: Upload the Patches