Table 1. VMWare deployment checklist

Complete

Task

Description

Related documentation

o

Check BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) settings.

Ensure that the following BIOS-specific settings are done to ensure compatibility with VMware ESX Server:

  • Virtualization is enabled.

  • Hyperthreading is turned off.

  • All processor cores are enabled.

“Test results” on page 190

“Test results” on page 190

o

Check for VMware configuation settings.

Check that the following VMWare settings are carried out:

  • vSphere version is current, with all maintenance patches applied.

  • VMware Tools is installed on each VM

  • Auto notify for VMware Tools updates availability option is enabled, if not auto update.

  • Latest virtualized network adapter (VMXNET3) is selected.

  • vSwitch is configured such that it separates VM traffic from ESX management traffic.

  • At least two vCPUs are assigned to SAM, and four vCPUs to IP.

  • Maximum memory is available to VMs running the VMware Smart Assurance software.

“VMware configuration guidelines” on page 182

“Test results” on page 190

o

Ensure general software recommendations are met.

Scheduling a software deployment varies based on the size and scope of the deployment and the organization’s requirements. Some prerequisites include ensuring that:

  • All VMs are running the same OS version and patch level.

  • All VMware Smart Assurance servers are at the same version and patch level.

“VMware configuration guidelines” on page 182