Installation guide

Example Upgrade Scenarios 2
Upgrade scenarios for vSphere 4.0 include cases with and without clustered hosts, hosts that you upgrade on
the same machine where they are currently running, and hosts that you upgrade using different machines.
This chapter includes the following topics:
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“About the Upgrade Process,” on page 15
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“Upgrading Environments with Host Clusters,” on page 16
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“Upgrading Environments Without Host Clusters,” on page 17
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“Upgrading by Moving Virtual Machines Using VMotion,” on page 18
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“Upgrading by Moving Virtual Machines Using Upgrade VMotion,” on page 20
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“Upgrading by Moving Powered Off or Suspended Virtual Machines (with vCenter Server),” on
page 22
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“Upgrading by Moving Powered Off or Suspended Virtual Machines (Without vCenter Server),” on
page 23
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“Upgrading to vCenter Server on a New Machine,” on page 24
About the Upgrade Process
Upgrading is a multistage process in which procedures must be performed in a particular order. If you follow
the suggested process, you can help ensure a smooth upgrade with a minimum of system downtime.
CAUTION VMware recommends that you read about the upgrade process before attempting to upgrade. If you
do not follow appropriate safeguards, you might lose data and lose access to your servers. Without careful
planning, you might incur more downtime than is necessary.
You must complete the upgrade process in a specific order. If you do not complete each upgrade stage before
moving on, you can lose data and server access. Order is also important within each upgrade stage.
Generally, you can perform the upgrade process for each component in only one direction. For example, after
you upgrade to vCenter Server, you cannot revert to VirtualCenter 2.x. With appropriate backups and
planning, you can restore your original software records.
You can take any amount of time to complete each of the upgrade procedures. However, keep in mind the
following considerations:
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You must complete one procedure before you move to the next procedure.
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Some major procedures include minor substeps. Follow the directions within each procedure regarding
the required sequence of minor substeps.
VMware, Inc.
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