VMware ESXi version for ML350 G6

[Mario N.]

I am starting a proof-of-concept using an HP ML350 G6 server and VMware ESXi.
What is the best version of VMware ESXi to use?
I am in trouble among:
• VMware ESX Server 3i U4 Installable Refresh Version 3.5 Update 4
• VMware ESXi 3.5 U4 Installable with HP Management Agents and Customizations Version 3.5 Update 4
• VMware ESXi 4.0 Installable (CD ISO) Version 4.0.0
I have no management infrastructure in place at the moment.
Can anybody please asdvice?
Regards
Mario

[Patrick Terlisten · Accepted solution]

Hello Mario,

currently supported are

vSphere: ESX 4.0, ESXi 4.0 Embedded, ESXi 4.0 Installable
VI3: ESX 3.5 U4, ESXi 3.5 Embedded U4, ESXi 3.5 Installable U4

If you have no managament infrastructure there is no need to use the version with embedded management agents. ESXi itself detects much sensors, even without any management agents. So if you interested in cpu temp, fan rpm etc. you don't need to use the version with the embedded management agents.

I would wait some week until I would use ESXi4. It's brand new and maybe some bugs are not found. Use ESXi3 U4, it's well tested and stable.

Best regards,
Patrick

[Mario N.]

Thank you for the information.
If I install now VMware ESXi 3.5 U4 I will be able to upgade to VMware ESXi 4.0 in the near future, is it correct?
Regards
Mario

[Patrick Terlisten]

Hello,

yes. But you must do a new installation. The VMFS and guests can be converted.

Best regards,
Patrick