How to install ESXi 6.0?

In this post I will explain you, how to install ESXi 6.0 in your server or virtual box. As I already explained what is ESXi and hypervisor you must already have some knowledge on virtualization.

Well if you want to learn basics of virtualization, please click on the link below:

What is ESXi?

Its quiet easy to install ESXi 6.0, if you have the following prerequisites handy:

1. A server with 64 bit processor and minimum of 2 cores, 4 GB RAM and 5 GB HDD ( I recommend 4 Core 8 GB RAM and atleast 20 GB HDD for better working and to deploy VMS).
2. ESXi virtual media/ISO, which you can download from the VMWARE website if you have a partner ID Download ESXi.
3. The NX/XD bit has to be enabled for the CPU in the BIOs. 
4. Intel VT-x or AMD RVI must be enabled for 64 bit CPU in BIOs.

If you still face any problems installing ESXi with all the above prerequisites then go to the link below:

Hardware requirements for ESXi 6.0 installation

Assuming that you have all the prerequisites handy, I am going to explain you how to install ESXi 6.0. 

You can install ESXi from the ISO using virtual media or burn the ISO into a CD/DVD and use DVD Drive, if you have one.

• Insert the DVD into the DVD drive or mount the ISO into the virtual media.
• Make sure the boot order has CD/DVD included and I recommend it should be in the 1st preference.
• Now boot from the CD/DVD and you will see the ESXi-6.0.0-x  boot menu.
• Select the ESXi-6.0.0-x installer.

• You will see the ESXi installer loading.

• The kernel will load following it.

• After the kernel finishes loading, it will ask for confirmation, Press ENTER to install or ESC to stop installation.

• Once you press ENTER, the GUI shows you the EULA (End User License Agreement) dialogue box, read it thoroughly and press F11 to accept the EULA and continue.

•  Once you press F11, it will start scanning for the available local and remote hard disks.

• Then it will ask you to Select the disk to install or upgrade. Select your desired disk Local or remote based on your hard disk type and press ENTER to continue.

• Next it will ask you to select keyboard layout, select one as you desire and press ENTER.

• Then enter root password, press tab, confirm password and press ENTER to continue.

• System will scan for additional information. 

• Once it asks you for installation, press F11 to start installation

• Installing ESXi 6.0.0 screen will appear, wait till it installs completely i.e till it reaches 100%.

• Once it finishes 100%, it will show installation complete and ask your confirmation to reboot. Press ENTER to reboot.

• System will be rebooted. 

• Once the server boots you will see the vmware ESXi loading similar to the screen while installing ESXi.

• Following this is the kernel loading screen also a similar screen while installation.

• Once the booting process is finished, you can see the screen with the bottom left side showing <F2> to Customize System/view Logs and bottom right side showing <F12> Shut Down/ Restart.

• If you are able to see this screen, you have successfully installed ESXi 6.0.