The detailed process of upgrading from vCenter 5.5 to vCenter 6.0 is as follows:
Understanding vCenter SSO
SSO (Single Sign-On) Definition: SSO is an authentication system for VMware user management, service management, and authentication. It allows different infrastructures such as vCenter and Web Client to be installed on different virtual machines and enables communication through SSO, so that administrators do not need to install all infrastructures on the vCenter Server.
Importance of SSO
In the new version of vCenter, the importance of SSO is even higher, providing an alternative authentication method for vCenter besides AD infrastructure.
Preparation before Upgrade
If performing a simplified installation of vCenter, there is no need for special SSO configuration, but ensure that the installation is run using domain administrator credentials to avoid issues adding domain users.
Upgrading vCenter SSO
Reason for Upgrade: To ensure consistency in versions between vCenter, SSO, and ESXi to unleash all features and capabilities.
Upgrade Method: Mount the VMware 6.0 ALL version ISO and follow the on-screen wizard to upgrade SSO step by step.
Upgrading vCenter Server
Backup: If the original vCenter is a virtual machine, take a snapshot backup before upgrading and back up the vc database.
Upgrade Steps:
On the host where vCenter resides, mount the VMware 6.0 ALL version ISO.
Run the installation program (there is no direct upgrade button, and the program will automatically detect and extract the upgrade script).
Enter the necessary verification information and the vCenter administrator’s password.
Configure network and corresponding ports, ensuring that the firewall has allowed these ports.
Confirm the installation and data, export directories, and ensure that vCenter and the database have been backed up.
Wait for the upgrade progress bar to complete.
Handling Independent Disk Format
Issue: If vCenter uses an independent disk, it cannot perform snapshots, cloning, or NBU backup.
Solution:
Shut down vCenter.
Export vCenter as an OVA or OVF format from ESXi.
Re-import the exported vCenter (configure it with the same IP address as the original vCenter and start related services).
Modify its independent disk format without starting vCenter.
Shut down the original vCenter and start the vCenter with the modified disk format.
Evaluation Mode after Upgrade
Licensing: After upgrading vCenter from 5.5 to 6.0, it will enter evaluation mode. You need to re-enter the authorized 6.0 license to use it permanently.
Browser Compatibility: If using vSphere Web Client to manage vCenter Server, please ensure that the browser version has been upgraded to IE 10 or later to support vSphere Web Client 6.
Conclusion
The upgrade from vCenter 5.5 to 6.0 requires careful preparation, including backing up data and ensuring firewall compatibility. Post-upgrade, ensure proper licensing and browser compatibility to fully utilize new features.