Updating ESXi 5.0.0 (build 504890)

[eversys]

We have a VMWare ESXi 5.0.0 (build 504890 - dated 11/03/2011) host. I would like to update as we are experiencing a few stability issues. I have looked at https://my.vmware.com/group/vmware/patch#search & selected ESXi 5.0.0. I am presented with 15 possible updates, including update01 through update03. Do I need to do these updates first or is release ESXi500-20140100 build number 11489271 (dated 01/23/2014) a cumulative update? Exact steps on how to update would be helpful. Finally, before the updates, should I make a complete backup of my Host (i.e. copy also VMs away) and what about my config?

Many thanks for your help.

[vThinkBeyondVM]

One thing I can confirm is : ESXi500-20140100 build number 1489271 (dated 01/23/2014): This is latest patch on ESXi 5.0 line. If it has all cumulative update (50U3+ latest patch), then you may consider direct update to this build.

I have not much experience eon upgrade but Some high level suggestions:

1. You will have to plan your upgrade properly to avoid any downtime.

2. If your host are part of vCenter, then you can use host profile for backing up your host config.

3. You may have to update vcenter as well to latest. this will allow you to add latest updated ESXi host into VC.

4. You can use vMotion wherever required for migrating your VMs to avoid downtime

5. Update manager can be used. Plz explore on the same

[eversys]

Thanks for your reply vickyvision2020. We do not have vCenter and use vSphere to manage the host. I assume we need to use the VMware vSphere CLI to perform the update.