Checking Host Compatibility Before Upgrade Using the Broadcom Compatibility Guide
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Checking Host Compatibility Before Upgrade Using the Broadcom Compatibility Guide

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Article ID: 381824

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Updated On:

Products

VMware vSphere ESXi

Issue/Introduction

Note: Before upgrading VMware ESXi hosts to a newer version, compatibility must be verified to ensure a successful upgrade. Failure to check compatibility can result in failed upgrades or unsupported configurations.

  • Any server hardware platform
  • Any storage configuration
  • ESXi upgrade attempts fail
  • Pre-upgrade checks indicate compatibility issues
  • System update elevator indicates upgrade blockage

Environment

6.x
7.x
8.x

Cause

  • ESXi version upgrades may fail due to incompatible server hardware,
  • May fail only due to BIOS versions.
    Updating the BIOS could make the server compatible with an upgrade.
  • IOS versions more than 2 years old frequently cause compatibility issues
  • Storage controller firmware versions can block upgrades even when not listed in compatibility guide
  • Certain NIC firmware/driver combinations require specific upgrade ordering
  • Hardware that passed n-1 version compatibility checks may still fail for n version

Resolution

    1. Access the Broadcom Compatibility Guide:
      1. Navigate to the Broadcom Compatibility Guide:
        Note: These are not the only supported or recommended configurations. Best practice is generally to use the latest BIOS version available for the server, even if it is newer than listed here. For further details about BIOS, server product configurations, and best practices, please contact the server vendor.
      2. Select Systems / Servers

    2. Check Server Hardware Compatibility:
      1. Enter your server manufacturer and model
      2. Select the target ESXi version
      3. Review BIOS version requirements
      4. Note any specific firmware requirements

    3. Verify Current System Configuration:
      1. Check current BIOS version

    4. Address Any Gaps:
      1. Update BIOS if required
    5. Document Prerequisites:
      1. Create checklist of required updates
      2. Note any special upgrade considerations

Additional Information

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