Release date: April 28th 2020
Welcome to my Dell Series. In this quick session I will describe how I updated BIOS, fw etc. and VMware ESXi on a Dell PowerEdge (VRTX) server. This info might be redundant for some, but useful for others. Therefore I decided to create this session anyhow. Prior to making this session, I have already updated the vCenter using the procedure described here: VMware vCenter – Update VCSA
The first thing I do, is to go to Dell support and download the Platform Specific Bootable ISO, PEM640. A very useful utility that identifies the hardware in the server and existing versions, and automatically updates the necessary versions.
Next, in VMware vSphere, I put the host into Maintenance Mode. I now log into Dell VRTX CMC and launch the iDrac GUI of my host
Inside iDrac, I launch Virtual Console
First I attach the PEM-ISO by clicking Connect Virtual Media
I browse to my ISO file and map this device
Once the PEM ISO is mapped, Close…
Next, I will change the boot order to boot the attached virtual image. I select Boot from the top menu and modify the Boot Controls
Now I power down and power up the server in order to boot up using the PEM ISO file
The server now boots up using the Virtual CD I mapped above
I select Dell Bootable ISO (UEFI Mode) from the menu
The Dell Bootable ISO runs validation and installation
After completion, I hit Enter to reboot
When the host has booted up and reported back in vSphere, I will update it using VMware Update Manager. First I check Compliance
I click Remediate
Confirm to install 10 updates, Remediate…
Prior to updating my host, it is at build VMware ESXi, 6.7.0, 15018017
After the hosts has been patched and automatically restarted, it is at build VMware ESXi, 6.7.0, 15820472
I can now exit maintenance mode and let DRS run and rebalance the cluster. With that done, this update task is finished. I proceed using this same procedure and update my remaining hosts in my cluster.
Other miscellaneous Tips & Tricks
Disclaimer: Every tips/tricks/posting I have published here, is tried and tested in different it-solutions. It is not guaranteed to work everywhere, but is meant as a tip for other users out there. Remember, Google is your friend and don’t be afraid to steal with pride! Feel free to comment below as needed.
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