VMware Tools Version Inconsistency Explained

Products

• VMware vCenter Server
• VMware vSphere ESXi

Issue/Introduction

• It is observed that virtual machines (VMs) running on the same ESXi host report different VMware Tools versions.
• This occurs even when the underlying ESXi host has been upgraded to a specific version.
• Clarification is needed on why these versions are inconsistent and how to ensure all VMs are running the latest supported version of VMware Tools.

Environment

VMware vSphere ESXi

Cause

• VMware Tools is designed to be independent of the ESXi host version. While a specific version of VMware Tools is bundled with each ESXi release, the tools inside the Guest OS can be upgraded independently of the underlying platform.
• Furthermore, VMware Tools does not automatically update itself following a host upgrade unless specific automation or lifecycle management policies are configured.
• Additionally, the maximum supported version of VMware Tools is determined by the specific Guest Operating System (OS) version running within the VM, which can lead to version variance across a heterogeneous environment.

Resolution

To manage and upgrade VMware Tools across multiple virtual machines, you can utilize the following methods:

• Automated Upgrades via vSphere Lifecycle Manager (vLCM):
  • You can use LCM to automate the upgrade process or perform bulk upgrades on multiple VMs simultaneously. Please refer to the Technical Documentation for the steps.
  • You can use LCM to schedule the upgrade process or perform bulk upgrades on multiple VMs simultaneously. Please refer to the Technical Documentation for the steps.
• Manual or alternative upgrades methods:
  • If you prefer not to use vLCM, refer to the VMware Tools Administration Guide for alternative upgrade workflows.
• Before upgrading, ensure the targeted VMware Tools version is compatible with your specific Guest OS by consulting these resources:
  • VMware Tools compatibility with Guest Operating Systems.
  • How to identify the supported VMware Tools version.

Additional Information

Upgrade Virtual Hardware (Optional but Recommended):

• After successfully updating VMware Tools, it is recommended to upgrade the VM Compatibility (Virtual Hardware version) to ensure the VM can utilize the latest features and performance enhancements supported by the ESXi host.
• Consult with the following KBs for detailed instructions and compatibility mapping, before proceeding with the hardware upgrade:

  • Upgrading a virtual machine to the latest hardware version: KB 315390

  • Virtual machine hardware versions and compatibility: KB 312100

Note: This step typically requires the VM to be powered off and should be planned during a maintenance window.