Ultimate Guide to Master ESXCLI and Host Configurations in vSphere

Introduction

VMware vSphere provides powerful command-line tools for managing ESXi hosts, and ESXCLI is one of the most versatile options at your disposal. In this blog, we’ll explore how to use ESXCLI commands to view various ESXi server configurations and provide scenario-based tasks with solutions, helping you harness the full potential of your virtual infrastructure.

Prerequisites

Before we delve into ESXCLI, ensure you have the following prerequisites in place:

1. Access to a VMware vSphere environment with ESXi hosts.
2. A basic understanding of command-line interfaces (CLI) and vSphere concepts.
3. Administrative or Root Access to your ESXi hosts.

Understanding ESXCLI

ESXCLI is a command-line tool used to manage and configure ESXi hosts. It offers a wide range of commands to interact with various aspects of the host, including networking, storage, hardware, and more.

Why ESXCLI?

Fine-Grained Control: ESXCLI provides precise control over host configurations, allowing you to make granular changes.

Scripting and Automation:  It is scriptable, making it a valuable tool for automation and orchestration.

Comprehensive Monitoring: ESXCLI commands can be used for extensive host configuration monitoring.

How to View Host Configuration

Task-1 Accessing ESXCLI

To use ESXCLI, open an SSH session to your ESXi host or log in to the ESXi Shell using an SSH client. You can use MTPUTTY or Putty tool for the same.

Task-2 View host version information like product name, build, version, update, etc.

Command:

esxcli system version get


Output:

Task-3 List all installed VIBs (vSphere Installation Bundles) in the ESXi server.

Command:
esxcli software vib list

Output:

Task-4 To view the ESXi host’s hardware information.

Command:
esxcli hardware platform get
Output:

Task-5 To view a list of network adapters on your ESXi host.

Command:
esxcli network nic list
Output:

Task-6 To view the storage devices connected to your ESXi host.

Command:
esxcli storage core device list
Output:

Task-7 Maintenance Mode Operation/ Tasks.

To check whether Maintenance Mode is enabled or Disable not. And how to enable or disable it.

Command:
esxcli system maintenanceMode get
esxcli system maintenanceMode set -e false //To disable
esxcli system maintenanceMode set -e true //To enable

Output:

Task-8: To display the ESXi server’s hostname, Domain name, and FQDN.

Command:
esxcli system hostname get
Output:

Task-9 To display the system clock of ESXi.

Command:
esxcli hardware clock get
Output:

Task-10 To display CPU details of ESXi.
Command:

esxcli hardware cpu list | less

Output:

Task-11 To view memory details of ESXi.

Command:
esxcli hardware memory get
Output:

Task-12 To list PCI devices associated with ESXI host with their information.

Command:

esxcli hardware pci list | less

Output:

Task-13 To review the firewall rules on your ESXi host.

Command:
esxcli hardware cpu global get
Output:

Task-14: To review the firewall rules on your ESXi host.

Command:
esxcli network firewall ruleset list

Output:

Conclusion

ESXCLI is a versatile tool that empowers administrators to efficiently view and manage ESXi host configurations. By understanding its basics using the provided scenario-based tasks and solutions, you can gain better control and visibility into your vSphere environment. Whether you’re a seasoned administrator or a newcomer to ESXCLI, this DIY guide is valuable for optimizing your virtual infrastructure. Stay curious, explore the commands, and precisely tailor your ESXi hosts to meet your organization’s needs.

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