Downloading VMware ESXi and VMware vSphere Software Components

Before starting the installation process, download VMware ESXi and other VMware vSphere components needed for installation.

Note: Broadcom® has changed VMware licensing terms. If you need to activate a Stratus-supplied VMware perpetual license, read the information provided at the following website: https://www.stratus.com/go/vmware-activation/.

To download VMware vSphere software

  1. Purchase a VMware vSphere license through VMware or an authorized VMware vSphere reseller. If needed, contact Stratus Customer Service to determine the type of license necessary for your ztC Endurance system, system resources, and workload.

  2. After you purchase the software, you receive a confirmation email that explains how to download the software that you ordered.

  3. To install your ztC Endurance system for the first time, download the ISO image for VMware ESXi 8.0 Update 1. You can download any other VMware vSphere software at your convenience.

    Note: Ensure that you download an ISO image for ESXi 8.0 Update 1. Automated Uptime Layer with Smart Exchange​ for VMware vSphere, Release 1.0.0.0, supports only VMware ESXi 8.0 Update 1.

  4. Copy the VMware ESXi ISO image to a USB device and transfer it to the system as described in Transferring Software ISOs to the Standby OS.

  5. If applicable, set up a vCenter Server system to manage the license keys you received during registration, or prepare to enter a VMware ESXi license key in VMware Host Client or vSphere Web Client after installation. See the VMware vSphere documentation for more information.

Note: Keep your Software License Activation Code Certificates, license keys, and serial numbers in a safe place. You may need them even after the initial software installation for reinstallation or upgrade purposes.