How do I license ESXi without internet access? When trying to apply my license in the client, it tries to get online. These servers are in a manufacturing environment and do not have internet access.
Thanks again for the help. This community is very valuable.
In the vSphere Client, have you gone to Configuration and then to Licensing?
Have you tried to apply the license directly on the host via the vSphere Client?
That's interesting. I've got several clients with secure environments, where Internet access isn't possible from the management clients, and I never had any issues with adding and assigning licenses. Do you know which Internet address it's trying to connect to? And are you adding the keys from the Windows or the Web Client (which version/build)?
André
I am using the Windows based vSphere Client version 5.5.0 Build 1993072 to connect to the ESXi host. It is trying to connect to http://www.vmware.com/info?id=987&prod=ESX&days=60 when I click on "Evaluation Mode: 60 Days remaining" in the lower right corner of the client interface. It also tries to get online when I try Help->VMware on the web -> register now (which isn't surprising considering it's called "VMware on the web")
I haven't installed vCenter Server on the host yet. Perhaps the web based client will allow me to add the license offline? I am evaluating the pros and cons of the vCenter Server ISO installation package vs the appliance.
In the vSphere Client, have you gone to Configuration and then to Licensing?
>>> ... when I click on "Evaluation Mode: 60 Days remaining"
Why do you want to select the evaluation mode? Once you install ESXi (as well as vCenter Server) it will run in a 60-day evaluation mode without the need to apply any license key!?
André
Ahh, Ben. Thanks that's it. I had overlooked the "edit" link on the licensed components page.
I don't want the evaluation mode, as you say, it does that automatically. The assumption was that by clicking on that message, it would let me apply the license but instead it brings up a webpage instead.
Glad to help!
Thanks!