Chapter 2 – Installation

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the default and recommended method for installing ESX Server: the graphical installer method. This is a very good method for getting used to the requirements of an ESX Server build as well as the outcome of what a successful build should be. However, in building a large number of ESX Servers on the same physical platform, one may want to script the installation method. The important issue in producing a stable ESX Server build is to get a build process. Documenting this process is essential to the repeatability. Once the person is comfortable with the build process, it is suggested to repeat it until one has it down. By stepping through it numerous times, one may find certain changes or tweaks that one may want to include. Documenting those changes and the reason for the change prove handy in reviewing the build document later on. Building a solid ESX Server allows stability, which is a main component of the new virtual infrastructure.