Mastering vSphere 7: A Guide to Upgrading vCenter 6.7 to 7 Update 3

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to upgrading your VMware vCenter Server from version 6.7 Update 3 to 7 Update 3. With vSphere 6.7 reaching its End of Support on October 15, 2022, it is essential to upgrade to ensure continued support and access to the latest features. This guide will walk you through the upgrade process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth transition.

Step 1: Backing Up Your vCenter Server

Before starting the upgrade, it is critical to back up your existing vCenter Server to prevent data loss. Follow these steps:

1. Access vCenter Server:

   • Log in to your vCenter Server using the administrative credentials.

2. Backup Configuration:

   • Use the built-in backup feature or third-party tools to create a backup of the vCenter Server Appliance (VCSA).
   • Ensure that you back up:
     • vCenter Server configuration
     • Inventory information
     • External Platform Services Controller (PSC) if applicable

3. Verify Backup:

   • Confirm that the backup is completed successfully and stored in a secure location.

Step 2: Deploying the New Appliance

The next step involves deploying the new vCenter Server Appliance. Here’s how to do it:

1. Download vCenter 7 Update 3:

   • Obtain the latest vCenter Server Appliance ISO from the VMware website.

2. Mount the ISO:

   • Mount the ISO file to a virtual machine or burn it to a physical media if applicable.

3. Launch the Installer:

   • Navigate to the vcsa-ui-installer directory and launch the installer based on your operating system (Windows, Linux, or Mac).

4. Select the Upgrade Option:

   • Choose the "Upgrade" option in the installer.

5. Follow the Wizard:

   • Provide the required information such as:
     • Source vCenter Server details
     • Target vCenter Server Appliance settings
   • Confirm the settings and start the deployment process.

Step 3: Migration of Data and Cutover

Once the new appliance is deployed, the next step is to migrate data from the old appliance to the new one.

1. Start the Migration Wizard:

   • Access the migration wizard from the installer you previously launched.

2. Enter Source Details:

   • Input the details of your existing vCenter Server.

3. Data Migration:

   • Select the data you wish to migrate. This includes:
     • Inventory
     • Networking settings
     • Custom configurations

4. Cutover:

   • Once the migration is complete, perform a cutover by shutting down the old vCenter Server.
   • Ensure that the new vCenter Server is functioning correctly.

Step 4: Login and Verify New Build

After the migration is complete, it’s essential to verify that the new vCenter Server is operational.

1. Log In:

   • Access the vSphere Client using the new vCenter Server's IP address or hostname.

2. Verify Settings:

   • Check the configuration settings, inventory, and services to ensure everything has migrated correctly.

3. Test Functionality:

   • Test essential functionalities like VM management, networking, and storage to confirm proper operation.

Conclusion

Upgrading to vCenter 7 Update 3 is a crucial step for maintaining support and leveraging new features. By following these steps—backing up your server, deploying the new appliance, migrating data, and verifying the new installation—you can ensure a successful upgrade. Remember to always consult the official VMware release notes and upgrade guides for specific details and additional considerations. After completing the upgrade, explore the new features and enhancements available in vCenter 7.