Add ESXi 6.7 host with powered on VMs to Cluster

[BahramMaleki77]

Hello,

I was wondering if I can add an ESXi host with running VMs to a cluster without any impact? When I try to add the host, it shows me that X number are running on the host.

Thanks

[pragg12 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Welcome to VMTN. 🙂

Normally, you should be able to add. If there are cluster settings which would require you to change something on ESXi or VMs, you will get error prompt with the information.

In any case, there should be no impact to currently running VMs. Go on and let us know what happens.

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[BahramMaleki77]

I tested it in my lab, When I add a host with running VM's to a cluster, first you have to turn off all guests or migrate to another host, because  the host goes to maintenance mode first.

Thanks

[pragg12]

I have heard about it before but yet to face it. What you can try next time is, add host in vCenter first and then drag and drop the host in cluster in vCenter. This should add the host in cluster without requiring VMs to power OFF first.

[BahramMaleki77]

Hi,

It worked by dragging the host to cluster.

Thanks

[bigjohn111]

Great info guys.. If you have a hosed vcenter with no backups and you rebuilt.. I guess per what is on here that we would need to have a complete outage right?