VMFS

Interesting to see the difference to VMFS format depending on whether the VMFS is new or upgraded from VMFS3. New GPT format only comes into play once the upgraded VMFS3-5 datastore is extended.

Also interested that upgraded VMFS retains block size options other than 1MB.

Image Builder

Provides an interface for managing and modifying image profiles and VIB packages, and for exporting to ISO and Zip containers. Image builder is a PowerCLI tool.

Notes taken from installation and setup doc for further review. Its a big document so i’ll bite off a small chunk and come back to it

Installation and setup

No Service console anymore!

• No GUI installer
• Installation is a one way process no downgrade to 4 once complete
• Single installer for upgrade or new install
• Autodeploy appliance for deployment of ESXi images (in memory)
• Image builder CLI for configuration of customised ESXi images with drivers

The vihostupdate and esxupdate utilities are not supported for ESXi 5.0. You cannot upgrade or migrate to ESXi 5.0 by using any command-line utility.

In an effort to get my VCP5 study momentum going i need to set a target to sit and pass the VCP5. To that end i will set myself the target of sitting it before Xmas. No revising over turkey and christmas cake, just a few concentrated weeks of lab install, document review and practice. This will of course mean giving something up, and that will have to be Gears of War3 and Modern Warfare 3 before the 10:30 – 12pm “funtime” window!

So in an effort to get my life in order i will start by listing sites and resources i have found useful along the way. The post will grow as i actually get my ar$e in gear. Feel free to comment or suggest resources as they present themselves.