HP custom ESXi 5.x image or VMware ESXi 5.x

[gerf0727]

Hello,

I would like to know the pros and cons of installing ESXi straight from VMware into a HP Chassis instead of using the HP custom image ?

I heard that custom images bring just problems.

Thanks,

[vmroyale · Accepted solution]

The HP image will get you HP drivers and the HP CIM providers. They can be useful when there are going to be driver issues, but I tend/prefer to use the VMware installers.

[gerf0727]

Brian,

Thanks,

Two more questions:

I can install ESXi straight from VMware and install the drivers separetely ?

Will I download the drivers from vmware.com right ?

[vmroyale]

I can install ESXi straight from VMware and install the drivers separetely ?

Yes, you can.

Will I download the drivers from vmware.com right ?

Yes - VMware offers drivers on the same site you downloaded the ESXi media from.

[a_p_]

It actually depends on which drivers are missing. If these are drivers required for the installation itself (e.g. NIC or RAID drivers) then you will need to either go with the HP image or create your own customized one. You can use either the drivers provided on the VMware site or at the HP site and create the image using the Image Builder or - the easy way - http://www.v-front.de/p/esxi-customizer.html

André

[vmroyale]

It actually depends on which  drivers are missing. http://www.v-front.de/p/esxi-customizer.html

Very good point André!

[antonior14]

Hi!

I'm considering to start virtualization for IT infrastructure, having an Hp Proliant I'm looking for best compatibility for lower hardaware and functional issues starting from installation version and so on...

I'm considering to start from an hypervisor version, reading your replies, I ask you if using an HP custom image only avoid drivers issues with performance and generic hardware warranty, but with versions or others limitations?

So why using VMware installers is better? (is my question to understand:smileyblush:)

Are there any functional or operational difference with this? (upgrades, installations, vm compatibility, others?)

I apologise for question

thanks a lot