The Direct Console User Interface (DCUI) is the front-end management system that allows for some basic configuration changes and troubleshooting options should the VMware ESXi host become unmanageable via conventional tools such as the vSphere Client or vCenter.
Typical administration tasks include:
- Reset ‘root’ password
- Configure Lockdown mode
- Configure, Restart, Test and Restore the VMware ESX Management Network
- Restart Management Agents
- Configure Keyboard
- Troubleshoot
- View System Logs
- Reset System Configuration (Factory Reset)
- Shutdown/Restart the VMware ESX Host
Most actions are carried out by using [F2] on the keyboard or [F11] confirm changes, along with typical options such as [Y] and [N] to various system prompts. Before carrying out any task you will be required to supply the ‘root’ password. However, the first law of security is to secure the physical server – so take care to ensure your access to ILO/RAC/BMC interfaces are properly secured. Although the VMware ESX host can be rebooted from the DCUI this is regarded as an action of last resort. If the VMware ESX hosts has running VMs these will crash, and may or may not be restarted on other hosts depending on whether they are part of a cluster.
Back To Basics: Managing VMware ESX Direct User Interface (DCUI)
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