Installation guide

Configuring Hosts and vCenter Server 5
Configuring ESX hosts, vCenter Server systems, and the vSphere Client involves several tasks. This section
contains information about some of the most common tasks.
For complete information about configuring ESX hosts, vCenter Server, and the vSphere Client, see the
following manuals:
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Introduction to vSphere
Provides an overview of the system architecture of vSphere.
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ESX Configuration Guide
Provides information about how to configure ESX host networking, storage, and security.
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ESXi Configuration Guide
Provides information about how to configure an ESXi host.
This chapter includes the following topics:
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“Host Configuration,” on page 47
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“Configuring vCenter Server,” on page 48
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“Access the vCenter Server Settings,” on page 48
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“Configuring Communication Among ESX, vCenter Server, and the vSphere Client,” on page 49
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“Configure vCenter Server SMTP Mail Settings,” on page 49
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“Working with Active Sessions,” on page 49
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“SNMP and vSphere,” on page 50
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“System Log Files,” on page 65
Host Configuration
Before you create virtual machines on your hosts, you must configure them to ensure that they have correct
licensing, network and storage access, and security settings. Each type of host has a manual that provides
information on the configuration for that host.
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For information on configuring an ESX host, see the ESX Configuration Guide.
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For information on configuring an ESXi host, see the ESXi Configuration Guide.
VMware, Inc.
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