Processor compatible ESXi 6.5 , but system not

[nuwan1985]

Hi all

Im planning to build my vmware esxi 6.5 home lab using either ((that will help me for VCP DCV 6.5 and my CCIE LAb))

1) IBM X3650 M3  2x Quad core Xeon X5570 or  2X  HEX core Xeon X5670 system

OR

2) HP Proliant DL380 G6  2 x Quad core Xeon X5550

but CPU compatible list says these both CPU support ESXi 6.5 .

but when i search for IBM X3650 system and HP system , vmware compatibility list says it does not support ESXi 6.5.

im Little confused with this mismatch , please help to clarify this confusion.

[aykutarar]

Hi ,

I compare this VMware Compatibility Guide - System Search .İ think  IBM X3650 M3 and HP Proliant DL380 G6 supported  ESX-i 5.5 u3

[nuwan1985]

Yes I saw it says system is not compatible, but its CPU are compatible with ESXi 6.5.

what is that really mean , Does ESXi 6.5 depend on any other system hardware ?

i thought it mainly depend on CPU.

If it depends on CPU only , CPU is supported , but why then system not supported for ESXi 6.5

Thank you

[daphnissov]

Because a given CPU package and model maybe used across many different servers of different generations. The vendors themselves certify their servers for support, not VMware. If you have an issue with their statements, feel free to contact IBM or HPE.

[nuwan1985]

Hi daphnissov

Thank you for your reply.i got it now.

I just want to know these different ESXi version mainly depends only on CPU or anything else.

Because if I know the CPU support but system not in the list. I don't have to worry whether HP or IBM not updated each system as long as if I can use

Esxi 6.5 in my system without any issues.

Thank you for your reply

[daphnissov]

Yes, ESXi, like all operating systems, uses far more than just the CPU. When in doubt, stick to the HCL for what the server says is compatible, not the CPU. Going beyond that is a gamble you must be willing to make.