How to Connect to VMware ESXi

Connecting to your VMware ESXi host allows you to manage virtual machines, configure host settings, monitor performance, and more. The method often involves using a client application or a web browser to access the host's management interface.

Based on the provided reference, one common way to connect involves using the vSphere Client application, which directly interfaces with the ESXi host or a vCenter Server.

Connecting Using the vSphere Client (Based on Reference)

To connect using the vSphere Client application, follow these steps as described:

1. Go to File > Connect to server. This action initiates the connection process within the client application.
2. Enter the server hostname or IP address and username and password. You will be presented with fields to input the necessary credentials and location of the ESXi server.
3. If the server runs on a non-standard port, follow the hostname / address with a colon and then the port number. Standard management ports are typically assumed, but if your ESXi host is configured differently, you must specify the custom port. For example: esxi.yourdomain.com:8443 or 192.168.1.100:902.
4. When prompted you can choose to store the password, to never store the password, or to decide later. The client provides options for managing your login credentials for future convenience or security.

Understanding the Connection Details

Regardless of the specific client application used (like the vSphere Client referenced), the core requirements for connecting to an ESXi host remain the same:

• Server Address: This is the network location of your ESXi host. It can be either its hostname (e.g., esxi.yourdomain.com) or its static IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.50).
• Username: The account used to log in. The default administrative username for a standalone ESXi host is typically root.
• Password: The password associated with the specified username. This was set during the ESXi installation or initial configuration.
• Port (Optional): If the default ports for management traffic (like TCP 443 for the web client or TCP 902/903 for other client functions) have been changed, you need to specify the custom port number after the address, separated by a colon (e.g., your.esxi.ip:custom_port).

Password Storage Options

As noted in the reference, when connecting via clients like the vSphere Client, you often have options regarding password storage:

• Store Password: The client remembers your password for that specific server, making future connections quicker but potentially posing a security risk if your computer is compromised.
• Never Store Password: You must enter your password each time you connect, enhancing security.
• Decide Later: Defer the decision on whether to store the password.

Alternative Connection Method: Web Client (vSphere Host Client)

For modern versions of ESXi (6.0 U2 and later), VMware primarily recommends using the web-based vSphere Host Client. While not detailed in the provided reference, the fundamental process is similar:

1. Open a web browser.
2. Enter the IP address or hostname of the ESXi host in the address bar (e.g., https://your.esxi.ip).
3. Log in using the username (typically root) and password.

This web-based client provides a full interface for managing the host without installing a separate desktop application.

Connecting to ESXi is straightforward once you have the correct address and credentials. The specific interface might vary depending on the client application or browser used, but the need for the server's location, a valid username, and the correct password is universal.