Create template of nested ESXi for cloning and repeat use

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It is possible to setup template for ESXi for cloning. To do that use:

1. Install ESXi on a VM normally
2. Enable ESXi shell / console
3. Connect to ESXi console (Alt+F1)

   Passing Alt+F1 from Linux is very difficult. Assign management IP and run the below commands over ssh.

4. Required Enable ESXi vmkernel ports to use MAC ID from vmnic using:

   esxcli system settings advanced set -o /Net/FollowHardwareMac -i 1

   Also see Install nested ESXi on top of ESXi in a VM

5. Delete UUID of system using

   sed -i 's#/system/uuid.*##' /etc/vmware/esx.conf

6. Shutdown esxi host and create template
7. Create ESXi clones using this template
8. On each cloned ESXi host if the UUID of cloned VMFS Volume is same then use

   esxcli storage vmfs snapshot resignature -l [VMFS-VOLUME]

Refer:

• https://www.virtuallyghetto.com/2013/12/how-to-properly-clone-nested-esxi-vm.html

Home > VMWare platform > VMWare vSphere or ESXi > Create template of nested ESXi for cloning and repeat use