Step-by-step guide: How to Upgrade an ESXi host from the Command Line

Introduction

Are you looking for an easy way to upgrade an ESXi host from the command line? Or maybe you’re just looking for a quick guide to get started. In either case, you came to the right place.

Upgrading ESXi hosts is pretty straightforward, but you can speed up the process using the command line. This guide shows you two ways to upgrade an ESXi host from the command line, saving time while increasing your chances of success.

When is an upgrade via the command line the only way?

Example / Details

Sometimes, the latest ESXi ISO does not support your server or RAID controller. This means VMware has more likely removed the VIB driver of your RAID controller. When you try installing from the ISO, ESXi will not recognize your RAID controller and, therefore, will not be able to install ESXi on your server. 

An option is to install an older ESXi version that still supports the RAID controller. After that, you can upgrade ESXi via the command line to the latest version. 

Of course, you could integrate the VIB driver into the ISO and install the latest version immediately. However, I figured out that going the way with first installing a supported ESXi version is much easier.

The command line option is also the preferred method when you don’t have access to the server because it is remote. The only requirement is that you have a computer on-site, preferably a physical machine.

Getting ready to update ESXi host without Vcenter

Upgrade requirements/image profile

There are no update requirements. Your host should, however, still be supported with the latest version of ESXi. However, it is not required since the upgrade process keeps any custom VIB drive installed.

You need access to my VMware portal and a login to download the latest zip (image profile) version from VMware.

What steps are involved in upgrading ESXi host from the command line interface?

In a nutshell:

There are two ways from the command line, and I will show you both.

To upgrade an ESXi host remotely, you must follow a few steps. First, you’ll need to download the latest version of ESXi from VMware’s patch portal and upload it to your datastore. Once uploaded, you can put the host into maintenance mode with either the UI or CLI. After that, you can upgrade your host from the command line using a compatible profile. Finally, reboot your host once the update is complete.

• Method 1: Online Installation
  Download the required update directly from the VMware repository
• Method 2: Offline Installation
  Download first the Offline Bundle (ZIP) from the My VMware portal.

Important Update (2025):

After Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware, the download process for ESXi has changed significantly. Access to offline bundles (ZIP files) and vendor-customized ISOs is now limited to users with an active support entitlement. This affects upgrade workflows using esxcli, which require the offline bundle.

However, the free version of ESXi is still available as a standard ISO image. You can register and download it from Broadcom’s official support site. This ISO is suitable for fresh installations but does not include vendor-specific drivers.

If you’re using a Dell, HP, Lenovo, or similar branded server, I recommend downloading the custom ESXi ISO directly from the manufacturer’s support website. These include drivers tailored for your hardware. While I can’t link to the vendor pages, you can easily find them by searching:

“Dell custom ESXi ISO site:dell.com”

“HPE custom ESXi ISO site:hpe.com”

“Lenovo custom ESXi ISO site:lenovo.com”

These custom ISOs work well for fresh installations. For upgrades, you’ll need access to the corresponding offline bundle, which is now behind Broadcom’s support wall.

What are the Vmware update methods other than from the command line?

Yes, there are a few alternative methods for upgrading an ESXi host. One is to use the ISO image, which you can download from VMware’s website. You can then create a USB boot drive and directly boot the host from the USB stick. You need to have physical access to the server. As mentioned above, this is sometimes not even an option for upgrading the ESXi host.

Another method is to upgrade your host using vSphere Lifecycle Manager (previously vSphere Update Manager). This requires VMware Vcenter. However, this is not an option if you have only the Essential Kit licensed.

What are the benefits of upgrading an ESXi host from the command line?

Some benefits of upgrading an ESXi host from the command line include automating the process and avoiding potential GUI-related issues easily. Additionally, upgrading from the command line can be faster and more reliable than using the vSphere Client or vSphere Web Client.

• There is no need to shut down the host first
• No physical presence is required
• easier management
• enhanced security

FAQ

I would love to get some feedback from you. Was this article helpful? Please share your opinion with me in the comment section below. Or, if you prefer a more personal touch, feel free to email me directly at info@edywerder.ch. Your thoughts and insights are always appreciated. Additionally, you can connect with me on Reddit at Navigatetech.