Use the direct console interface for initial ESXi configuration and troubleshooting.
Connect a keyboard and monitor to the host to use the direct console. After the host completes the autoconfiguration phase, the direct console appears on the monitor. You can examine the default network configuration and change any settings that are not compatible with your network environment.
Key operations available to you in the direct console include:
- Configuring hosts
- Setting up administrative access
- Troubleshooting
You can also use vSphere Client to manage the host by using vCenter Server.
| Action | Key |
|---|---|
| View and change the configuration | F2 |
| Change the user interface to high-contrast mode | F4 |
| Shut down or restart the host | F12 |
| View the VMkernel log | Alt+F12 |
| Switch to the shell console | Alt+F1 |
| Switch to the direct console user interface | Alt+F2 |
| Move the selection between fields | Arrow keys |
| Select a menu item | Enter |
| Toggle a value | Spacebar |
| Confirm sensitive commands, such as resetting configuration defaults | F11 |
| Save and exit | Enter |
| Exit without saving | Esc |
| Exit system logs | q |
