Why does HCX manager require internet connectivity for activation and updates?

Products

• VMware HCX
• VMware Cloud on AWS

Issue/Introduction

This article provides information why does HCX manager require internet connectivity for activation and updates.

Symptoms:
Why does HCX manager require internet connectivity for activation and updates?

Cause

HCX Manager systems connect to connect.hcx.vmware.com and query the server for published service updates, and must be able to reach hybridity-depot.vmware.com for the download of update files.
The connection to connect.hcx.vmware.com is required at all times and the HCX service is disabled if any HCX Manager loses connectivity to it for a prolonged period of time.

Resolution

This table lists the required connections initiated from every HCX Manager system for activation, publishing system updates, and enhanced support.
 

Source	Destination	Service	Purpose
HCX Manager (Applies to both the HCX Manager at the source site and HCX Manager at the destination site.)	connect.hcx.vmware.com	TCP-443	Activation and Entitlement.
HCX Manager (Applies to both the HCX Manager at the source site and HCX Manager at the destination site.)	hybridity-depot.vmware.com	TCP-443	Access to Published HCX Updates.

Additional Information

Network Port and Protocol Requirements
https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-HCX/services/user-guide/GUID-E456F078-22BE-494B-8E4B-076EF33A9CF4.html