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With VMware 7.x reaching End of Support (EOS) on October 2, 2025, organizations must plan their migration to VMware 8.x or consider alternative hypervisors. Below are key details, commands, and steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Official VMware Announcements & Resources
- VMware 7.x EOS Announcement: https://lnkd.in/eRyQypGP
- Broadcom’s Post on 7.x EOGS: https://lnkd.in/eiUJgdhj
- NetworkWorld on 7.x EOL: https://lnkd.in/eXMf4Urm
You Should Know: VMware Upgrade & Migration Steps
1. Check Current VMware Version
Run the following command in ESXi Shell or SSH:
vmware -vl
Or via PowerCLI:
Get-VMHost | Select Name, Version, Build
2. Backup VMware Configurations
Before upgrading, back up your ESXi host configurations:
vim-cmd hostsvc/firmware/backup_config
This generates a `.tgz` file in `/scratch/downloads/`.
3. Upgrade vCenter Server First
Use the vCenter Server Appliance (VCSA) ISO and run:
./vcsa-ui-installer/installer
Follow the GUI prompts for the upgrade.
4. Upgrade ESXi Hosts
For offline upgrades (using ISO):
esxcli software profile update -d /vmfs/volumes/datastore1/VMware-ESXi-8.0.x-depot.zip -p ESXi-8.0.x-standard
For online upgrades:
esxcli network firewall ruleset set -e true -r httpClient esxcli software profile update -p ESXi-8.0.x-standard -d https://hostupdate.vmware.com/software/VUM/PRODUCTION/main/vmw-depot-index.xml
5. Verify Post-Upgrade
Check for successful upgrade:
esxcli system version get
Alternatives to VMware 7.x
If migrating away from VMware, consider:
- Proxmox VE (
pveversion -vto check version) - Nutanix AHV (
ncli cluster info) - Microsoft Hyper-V (
Get-VMHost | fl `))
- Scale Computing (`scadmin version
What Undercode Say
The VMware 7.x EOS is a critical deadline. Organizations must:
– Test upgrades in a lab first (esxcli software vib list to verify compatibility).
– Automate backups (ghettovcb script for VM backups).
– Monitor performance post-upgrade (esxtop for resource tracking).
– Evaluate alternatives if VMware’s new licensing model is prohibitive.
For security hardening post-upgrade:
esxcli network firewall set --default-action false esxcli system settings advanced set -o /UserVars/SuppressShellWarning -i 0
Expected Output
After a successful upgrade, your ESXi host should report:
VMware ESXi 8.0.x [Build-xxxxxx]
Prediction
Post-EOS, unpatched VMware 7.x systems may face increased cyberattacks, especially ransomware targeting known vulnerabilities. Migrate before October 2025 to avoid operational disruptions.
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Charlescrampton October – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
