1.1.0

Overview of Lifecycle Manager 1
VMware vCenter Lifecycle Manager (LCM) automates the process of creating virtual machines and removing
them from service at the appropriate time. The tasks that you can perform depends on the role that the LCM
Administrator has assigned to you. This guide describes the tasks that each role can perform. For information
about the tasks that the LCM Administrator can perform, see the Lifecycle Manager Administration Guide.
This chapter includes the following topics:
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“Lifecycle Manager Process,” on page 7
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“Lifecycle Manager Terminology,” on page 7
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“Lifecycle Manager Roles,” on page 8
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“Supported Browsers,” on page 9
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“Log In to LCM,” on page 10
Lifecycle Manager Process
The way that LCM handles requests to create virtual machines depends on how the LCM Administrator has
configured the approval process. If approval is required, an email notification is sent to the LCM Approver
user. If approval is not required, and there is no conflict with the request, the virtual machine is created. If
there is a conflict, an LCM IT Staff user receives an email notification that a virtual machine is waiting to be
created.
After a virtual machine is created, it can be used until the decommissioning date. Five days before the
decommissioning date, an email notice is sent to the user who requested the virtual machine if email
notifications are enabled. The user can perform one of the following actions:
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Request to extend the life of the machine.
If the extension is not approved, the virtual machine is decommissioned and is archived or deleted.
The LCM Administrator determines whether decommissioned virtual machines are archived.
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Manually decommission the virtual machine.
Lifecycle Manager Terminology
LCM uses specific terminology to describe lifecycle events and attributes.
Commission
The creation of a requested virtual machine. The commission time is submitted
during the request process.
Decommission
The requested machine reaches the end of its life. A decommission date is
submitted during the request process. The decommissioned machine can be
archived or deleted.
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