Category Archives: ScreenCast

Install ESXi5.0 from a CD or DVD Using a Script

In the previous post we saw how to interactively install ESXi, here I will show you how to install using script. Only difference between this method and interactive method is you do not need provide any inputs. Just one simple line pointing to ks.cfg file and all done.

What you need? i.e. pre-requisites

IIS or any Webserver
ISO image to burn it on CD/DVD (assuming you do not have ILO)

Configuration of IIS Server

Install IIS using standard next next method. Nothing special there.
Extract ESXi5.0 ISO image using ISO Buster
Below is what it might look after extracting the image
Create a folder by name e.g. ESXi5 under C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\ as shown below and copy the above files or entire content of the CD
Create a answer file with name ks.cfg as shown below

#
# Sample scripted installation file
#
# Accept the VMware End User License Agreement
vmaccepteula
# Set the root password for the DCUI and Tech Support Mode
rootpw mypassword
# Install on the first local disk available on machine
install –firstdisk –overwritevmfs
# Set the network to DHCP on the first network adapater
network –bootproto=dhcp –device=vmnic0

# Reboot the OS but do not eject CD.

reboot –-noeject

Copy the ks.cfg file into C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\ESXi5
Start the server, ensure it boots from the CD as shown below and press enter
When you see below screen press SHIFT + O
You get below screen, remove run runweasel by press backspace
Type the webserver address as shown below
Press Enter and watch the stuff.

Posted in Installation, ScreenCast, scripted

fresh installation of esxi5.0 screencast

Sep 25

Posted by Preetam

You can run the ESXi 5.0 installer from a CD/DVD or USB flash drive to do an interactive upgrade or migration.The installer works the same as for a fresh installation, but if you select a target disk that already contains an ESX/ESXi 4.x installation, the installer upgrades the host to 5.0, and gives you the option to migrate some existing host settings and configuration files, and preserve the existing VMFS data stores.