Enhanced linked mode / migration

[seanyp]

Hi There,

What would be the best way to move several esxi hosts from one vCenter server (7.0.3) to a new vCenter Server created on a host which is in a different location ? (not clustered)

Initial idea was to setup enhanced linked mode, but unsure if this would provide the redundancy / ability to decommission the initial vCenter server.

Thanks

[sdtslmn · Accepted solution]

here it is better to go with traditional method 

1. Disconnect and Remove ESXi Hosts from the Old vCenter
2. Add ESXi Hosts to the New vCenter Server:
3. After the hosts are added to the new vCenter, you might need to reconfigure settings such as network configurations, datastore access, and permissions.
4. If you were using features like Distributed Switches, you'd need to export the configuration from the old vCenter and import it into the new vCenter before moving the hosts.
5. Decommissioning the Old vCenter

ELM's value becomes more apparent in environments where ongoing management and visibility across multiple vCenters are required not for mogration 

[seanyp]

Thanks @sdtslmn 

[markey165 · Accepted solution]

@seanyp  Just hosts, or VMs as well? If the latter, make sure all your networking is in place, and tested before moving anything onto it.

My take is you could use the opportunity to upgrade the hosts to ESXi 8 (assuming the hardware supports it). Especially considering general support for vSphere 7.0 ends next year (2nd April 2025). Kill 2 birds with one stone so to speak.

HTH 😊