To upload a file, such as an ISO image, to your VMware environment using the vSphere Client, you typically upload it to a datastore. This allows virtual machines to access the file, for instance, to install an operating system from an ISO.
The core process involves navigating within the vSphere Client to your storage, selecting a datastore, and using the upload function.
Steps to Upload a File to a VMware Datastore
Uploading a file like an OS installation image (ISO) or a virtual machine disk file (VMDK) to your VMware datastore makes it accessible for your virtual machines. Here are the steps based on the standard procedure within the vSphere Client:
- Access Storage: In the vSphere Client, select Menu > Storage. This takes you to the storage view where you can see your datastores.
- Select Datastore: From the inventory, select the datastore to which you will upload the file. Choose a datastore with enough free space for the file.
- Choose Folder and Initiate Upload: Navigate within the selected datastore. You can select an existing folder or the folder that you created, and then click the Upload Files icon. This icon is usually represented by an arrow pointing upwards or a similar symbol indicating an upload action.
- Browse and Upload: On your local computer, a file browser window will appear. Find the file and upload it. Select the desired image file (e.g.,
your_os_image.isooryour_vm_template.vmdk) and confirm the upload.
Once the upload is complete, the file will be available in the chosen folder on the datastore, ready to be attached to a virtual machine.
Why Upload Images or Files to VMware Datastores?
Datastores are the storage repositories for your virtual machines and their associated files in VMware vSphere. Uploading files to a datastore serves several key purposes:
- Operating System Installation: Uploading ISO images allows you to mount them as virtual CD/DVD drives to virtual machines to install operating systems without needing physical media.
- Virtual Machine Templates: Uploading VMDK files or entire virtual machine directories (if exported in a compatible format) allows you to import existing virtual machines or use them as templates.
- Software Installation Files: You can store software installers or patch files on a datastore to easily access them from multiple VMs.
- Backup and Configuration Files: Sometimes, backup files or configuration files for applications running on VMs might be stored on datastores.
This process ensures that the necessary files are in a location accessible to the ESXi hosts and the virtual machines running on them.
