Best way to build Identical ESX Hosts

[iainh667]

Hi, I need to build 4-6 ESX Hosts to be identically configured. (Same ports groups, NTP settings etc.) All the hosts will use the same make/model/config of hardware)

I'm thinking that kickstart server and a load of PowerCLI scripts would be the best way of achieving this, but I've not done it before.

Can you recommend the best way of doing this, or any useful links?

Thanks in advance

ps. The customer has only paid for Enterprise license,(not enterprise Plus),so I can't use Host Profiles)

[Troy_Clavell · Accepted solution]

kickstarts are they way to go. However if you have Enterprise Plus licensing you can use host profiles.

Here's what I used to help build out my kickstarts

...also, all though I don't use this, it is very well put together

....and finally

http://www.ivobeerens.nl/?p=509

[mcowger]

Absolutely agree - kickstart if you know bash/perl. PowerCLI if you dont.

--Matt

VCP, vExpert, Unix Geek, Storage Nerd

[petedr]

I was thinking kickstarts when I read the thread title, I agree with the previous posts.

www.phdvirtual.com, makers of esXpress

[VMmatty]

I've also found that using a deployment tool like the ESX Deployment Appliance can greatly simplify the process of deploying identical hosts. It's a preconfigured virtual appliance with PXE/DHCP built in to make it much easier to use. It's great for people who aren't strong with Kickstart scripting. You can run it on your laptop with VMware Player or Workstation.

http://www.vmware.com/appliances/directory/89313

[depping]

Kickstart, and preferably by using an appliance like EDA. It even has pre-built example scripts which will make your life so much easier.

Duncan

VMware Communities User Moderator | VCDX

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[iainh667]

Just a quick reply to say many thanks, the tasks is now looking a lot less daunting.

You've all given me some very valuable advice.

Iain