The Update Manager plugin
VMware vSphere Update Manager 5 allows administrators to manage patches for ESX and ESXi servers, VMs, and virtual appliances. It allows centralized and automated patch management.
The following tasks can be performed with Update Manager:
Patching and upgrading ESXi hosts
Upgrading VM hardware and VMware Tools
To be able to install patches on an ESX/ESXi server, you will need at least ESX/ESXi Version 3.5. If you want to upgrade or migrate hosts to a newer version of the operating system, Update Manager requires at least ESX/ESXi Version 4. VMware Tools and VM hardware updates are also supported on Version 4 and higher.
Installation
Update Manager 5 is a vCenter Client plugin that needs to be installed on each client that needs the ability to manage updates. It also consists of a server component; therefore, clients need to be able to connect to the vCenter server.
The Update Manager installer can be downloaded from the support section on the VMware website.
Requirements...
