Installation of Type 1 Hypervisor (Example: VMware ESXi)
Introduction
A Type 1 Hypervisor (Bare-Metal Hypervisor) is installed directly on physical hardware without an underlying operating system. It provides better performance, security, and resource management compared to Type 2 hypervisors.
Example: VMware ESXi.
What is VMware ESXi?
VMware ESXi is an enterprise-level Type 1 hypervisor developed by VMware. It allows multiple virtual machines (VMs) to run on a single physical server.
System Requirements
Before installing ESXi, ensure the following:
- 64-bit x86 server hardware
- Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
- At least 2 CPU cores
- 10 GB disk space (minimum)
- Bootable USB/DVD
- Supported Network Adapter
Steps to Install VMware ESXi
Step 1: Download ESXi ISO
- Visit the official VMware website.
- Download the latest ESXi ISO image.
- Create a bootable USB using tools like Rufus.
Step 2: Boot from Installation Media
- Insert bootable USB/DVD into the server.
- Restart the system.
- Enter BIOS and select boot from USB/DVD.
- ESXi installer screen will appear.
Step 3: Start Installation
- Press Enter to begin installation.
- Accept the license agreement (Press F11).
- Select the storage disk where ESXi will be installed.
- Choose keyboard layout.
- Set root password.
Step 4: Complete Installation
- Press F11 to confirm installation.
- Wait for installation to complete.
- Remove USB/DVD and reboot the system.
Step 5: Configure Network Settings
After reboot:
- Press F2 to customize system.
- Configure Management Network.
- Set IP address (Static or DHCP).
- Test network connection.
- Save and restart management network.
Accessing ESXi
- Open a web browser.
- Enter ESXi IP address (e.g., https://192.168.1.10).
- Login using root credentials.
- Use web interface to create and manage virtual machines.
Advantages of Type 1 Hypervisor (ESXi)
- High performance
- Better security
- Direct hardware access
- Enterprise-level virtualization
- Efficient resource management
Conclusion
Installing VMware ESXi allows you to create and manage multiple virtual machines directly on hardware. It is widely used in enterprise data centers due to its stability, performance, and security.
Viva Questions with Answers
1. What is a Type 1 hypervisor?
A hypervisor installed directly on physical hardware.
2. Give one example of Type 1 hypervisor.
VMware ESXi.
3. Does ESXi require a host operating system?
No.
4. Which key is used to accept ESXi license agreement?
F11.
5. How do you access ESXi after installation?
Using its IP address in a web browser.