In the realm of server deployment, Dell servers are highly regarded for their ease of use and variety of installation methods. Users can choose from several installation approaches based on their specific needs. In this guide, we will discuss how to deploy an ESXi virtual system on a Dell server. Before beginning, ensure that no data on the system hard drives is required, as all data will be wiped once the system is deployed.

The deployment will be done using a CD/DVD installation media, and we will leverage the IDRAC remote virtual console for installation, with the help of Lifecycle Controller for managing the deployment process.

What is Lifecycle Controller?

The Lifecycle Controller is an embedded management tool in Dell servers, integrated into the system management controller. It provides a range of essential functions:

  1. Automated Deployment: Supports the automatic installation and configuration of the operating system and other software via network, simplifying the server setup process.

  2. Firmware and Driver Updates: Automatically detects and installs the latest firmware and driver updates, ensuring the server operates in optimal condition.

  3. Health Monitoring: Continuously monitors server hardware conditions such as temperature, voltage, and fan speed, helping administrators detect and resolve issues promptly.

  4. Remote Management: Administrators can access and manage the server remotely through a web interface or command-line tools, executing various management and maintenance tasks.

  5. Reports and Logs: Generates detailed system reports and logs, assisting administrators in troubleshooting and performance analysis.

  6. Configuration Management: Supports backup and recovery of server configurations, ensuring quick recovery to normal operations in case of system failure.

Preparing System Media

Before deploying the system, ensure that the installation media is ready. In this demonstration, a CD will be used as the installation medium. First, prepare the system image and burn it to a blank CD.

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Configuring Lifecycle Controller

Once the installation media is ready, access the Lifecycle Controller for the installation configuration.

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Opening Virtual Console via IDRAC

Use IDRAC to open the remote console for installation. Locate the IDRAC IP address and enter the configuration interface.

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In the "Overview - Server - Virtual Console" section, adjust settings according to your needs. During the debugging process, HTML-based control will be used. After confirming the connection settings, open the virtual console.

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Accessing Lifecycle Controller

Once the virtual console is open, power on the server. During startup, four options will appear:

  • F2: System Setup

  • F10: Lifecycle Controller (Embedded Management Tool)

  • F11: Boot Manager

  • F12: PXE Boot (Preboot Execution Environment)

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Press F10 to enter the Lifecycle Controller. After a short wait, you will enter the Lifecycle Controller interface.

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Within the Lifecycle Controller, you can perform a wide range of server operations. To install the operating system, go to the operating system deployment section. You will be prompted to configure RAID or directly deploy the operating system. Ensure you confirm whether the server’s data should be retained. If RAID configuration is selected, all data will be erased before system installation. If you choose to skip RAID configuration, existing RAID settings will not be modified. Select the appropriate configuration based on your needs.

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After configuring RAID (if needed), the system installation can proceed. Select the boot mode — in this demonstration, we will use CD as the installation medium, so choose BIOS to boot from CD. Next, select the ESXi operating system for installation.

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Installing ESXi

After configuring Lifecycle Controller, the system will automatically reboot from the installation media. The ESXi installation screen will appear, allowing you to proceed with the deployment.

  1. User Agreement: The system will first prompt you to accept the user agreement. Press F11 to proceed.

  2. Select Disk: Choose the disk you configured earlier as the installation target.

  3. Keyboard Layout: The system will prompt you to select a keyboard layout. The default option is usually sufficient.

  4. Set ESXi Password: Set the root password for the ESXi installation.

  5. Begin Installation: After confirming the password, proceed with the installation. If the CPU is older, you may see a message indicating unsupported hardware; simply ignore this and continue.

  6. Confirm and Install: The system will prompt you again, confirming that all hard disk files will be erased. If everything is correct, click F11 to begin the installation.

The system will automatically begin the installation process. Once the installation is complete, you may receive a prompt to remove the installation media. Follow the instructions to remove the media and click Restart.

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Post-Installation Configuration

Once the system reboots, you will see the ESXi IP address on the screen. Using the IP address, access the ESXi web management interface. Log in using the root username and the password you set earlier during the installation.

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图片.pngAt this point, the ESXi installation is complete, and you can begin configuring and managing your virtual environment.

This concludes the installation process for deploying ESXi on a Dell PowerEdge R730xd using Lifecycle Controller. By following these steps, you have successfully installed the ESXi system and can now manage your virtual environment through the web interface.