Patching vCenter 8.0 U3d to U3e Using the CLI Method

VMware vCenter Server is a critical component of any VMware environment, and keeping it up-to-date is essential for performance, security, and stability. VMware releases regular patches and updates, and in this blog, we’ll demonstrate how to patch vCenter from version 8.0 U3d to 8.0 U3e using the Command Line Interface (CLI) method

Prerequisites

Before beginning the patch process, ensure the following:

• Backup the vCenter Server and its database to avoid any data loss in case of issues.

• Verify that the patch you are applying is compatible with your current vCenter version.

• Ensure the vCenter Server is in Change window if possible (this is to avoid disrupting running tasks).

• If the vCenter Server is ELM mode , Please take cold snapshots for all vCenter Server VMs.

• You have SSH access to the vCenter Server and root or administrative privileges.

• enable the bash shell on the vCenter Server.

Step-by-Step Guide to Patching vCenter from 8.0 U3d to 8.0 U3e

Step 1: Download the Patch

1. Go to VMware’s official patch repository (https://support.broadcom.com)

2. Under Solutions(it will have all the patches ) look for the vCenter 8.0 U3e patch for your specific version.

   

   
   

3. Download the iso 8.0u3e patch

   

Step 2: Upload the Patch to the vCenter Server

1. Upload the Patch ISO to Datastore from where we can mount the ISO to vCenter VM.

2. Once the ISO upload to the datastore , now mount the iso to vCenter VM

   

   Step 3: SSH into the vCenter Server

   1. SSH into the vCenter Server using an SSH client.

Step 4: Stage the mounted patch iso

a. run the command " software-packages stage --iso --acceptEulas "

b. After the staging completes, list or install the staged packages:

" software-packages list --staged "

c. Now install the staged packages:

" software-packages install --staged "

d. Once the patch installation is initiated you can monitor it via VAMI Page

e. installation will take few mins in my case it took 20min and it rebooted the VC.

Step 5: Check System Health and Logs

1. Check the status of the vCenter services to ensure everything is functioning properly:

   

Conclusion

Patching vCenter from 8.0 U3d to U3e using the CLI method is a straightforward process if you follow the outlined steps. Always make sure to back up your system before applying any patches, and verify the success of the operation afterward. By keeping your vCenter Server up-to-date, you ensure a stable and secure environment for managing your VMware infrastructure

Reference : Broadcom KB