How do I determine if an ESX server needs updates?

[ITTech2002]

How do I determine if an ESX server needs updates without using vCenter server or Update manager?

(1) ESXi Host

(0) vCenter Server

(0) Update Manager

Current version is ESX 4.1.0 348481

Is there a website where I can plug in this number above, and it spits out the missing patches?

Thank much!

[a_p_ · Accepted solution]

Please take a look at http://www.vmware.com/patchmgr/download.portal to see whether this answers your question.

André

[MauroBonder]

apply all patches higher of your BUILD version - currently the most update build is Build Number: 381591

Please, don't forget the awarding points for "helpful" and/or "correct" answers.

Mauro Bonder - Moderator

[bhaski]

The ESXi Build number can be found in the vCenter and compare that with the build number of the latest download available.

You can also use vib-env command from the ESXi console and that will give you all the basic info about your host including the build number.

If they don't match, then you know you need updates. Before you update, you may also read the release notes and make sure that the update fixes any issue that might be facing or a feature that you are expecting.