I would try to upgrade my ESX 3.0.2 Update 1 rather than ESX 3.0.1 version. Virtual Center 2.5 should work with older version as well, make sure to backup your VC database and upgrade ESX host and VC to the latest 3.5 version (or wait several more weeks until ESX 3.5 Update 1) issues has been cleared than you can do fresh install on development ESX 3.5 Update 1 (it includes all latest patches)
1. Backup your database
2. Upgrade virtual center server to VC 2.5
3. Fresh install ESX 3.5 hosts and add them to VC server
4. Mask your LUN to see existing LUNs and start migration of ESX 3.0.1 VMs and than upgrade the rest of ESX 3.0.1 hosts or fresh install until its completed.
WARNING: fresh install, you MUST remove HBA connections from the server to prevent from accidentally wipe out the SAN data. Use
www.xtravirt.com guide how to disable HBA driver modules from loading if you lazy to remove HBA connection. Make sure to plan and read a little bit before doing live production.
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Regards,
Stefan Nguyen
iGeek Systems LLC.
VMware, Citrix, Microsoft Consultant
