Cpu lower than 2 GHz

[fredz]

Currently running ESX 3 on an IBM x3550 with 2x DC Xeon 5110 1.6GHz. According to the specs, I won't be able to install ESX 4.0 on this server. Is this correct, or could I still try?

[vmroyale]

Hello.

This server is listed in the HCL for ESX 4.0, so you should be fine.

Good Luck!

[fredz]

Yes, but... this server exists in configurations with cpu's over 2 GHz. So my question remains: will ESX4 run on CPUs lower than 2 GHz, as on every VMware page it says that you need a CPU with at least 2 GHz...

[vmroyale · Accepted solution]

>every VMware page it says that you need a CPU with at least 2 GHz...

Are you sure you aren't looking at the requirements for vCenter 4.0?

The vSphere Migration Prerequisites Checklist makes no mention of specific processor speed requirements for ESX servers. It does state that one should "Ensure that the hardware meets the minimum system requirements for VMware ESX/ESXi 4. See the online Hardware Compatibility Guide at http://www.vmware.com/resources/compatibility and the hardware requirements in the ESX and vCenter Server Installation Guide from the VMware documentation web site"

The ESX and vCenter Server Installation Guide lists the ESX hardware requirements of a 64-bit processor. It also states that "All Intel Xeon 3000/3200, 3100/3300, 5100/5300, 5200/5400, 7100/7300, and 7200/7400 support 64 bit." No mention is made to the requirements of a specific speed of the processor. The minimum requirements for vCenter Server are listed as

2 CPUs at 2.0GHz or faster Intel or AMD processor.

In VMware kb 1009039 titled "Upgrading to ESX 4.0 and vCenter 4.0 best practices" the vCenter Server requirements for processors are listed as 2 CPUs 2.0GHz or higher Intel or AMD x86 processors. For ESX 4.0, the requirements are listed as "Make sure your hardware is compliant on the Hardware Compatibility Guide." Again, no reference to a speed requirement for the processor.

[fredz]

Thanks, my bad. Was indeed wrong.

Is there any how-to how to upgrade ESX 3.5 to 4.0 on a standalone server (so just one server, no database server etc)?

[vmroyale]

Sure, check out the vSphere Upgrade Guide, and just start at Chapter 10.

[fredz]

Can I use my VI3 serial number when upgrading from ESX 3.5 to ESX 4?

[vmroyale]

No, you can't. Check the vSphere Licensing FAQs to get started with the license upgrade process. You will want to do this first.