The key differences between VMware ESXi 6.x and ESXi 8.x:
Version Overview
- ESXi 6.x: Released 2015-2018 (6.0, 6.5, 6.7)
- ESXi 8.x: Released 2022 (8.0)
Hardware Support
ESXi 8.x Improvements:
- Newer CPU support: Intel 12th/13th gen, AMD EPYC 7003/7004 series
- Enhanced GPU support: Better vGPU and GPU passthrough capabilities
- NVMe improvements: Better NVMe over Fabrics support
- Updated hardware compatibility: Supports newer network and storage controllers
Performance & Scalability
ESXi 8.x Enhancements:
- Higher limits: Increased VM per host limits (1,024 VMs vs 1,000+)
- Memory improvements: Better memory management and larger VM memory support
- CPU scheduling: Enhanced NUMA awareness and CPU scheduler
- Storage performance: Improved vSAN performance and NVMe support
Security Features
ESXi 8.x Additions:
- Enhanced lockdown mode: More granular security controls
- Secure boot improvements: Stronger UEFI secure boot validation
- Certificate management: Improved certificate handling and rotation
- Kernel hardening: Additional security mitigations
Management & Features
ESXi 8.x New Features:
- DPU support: Data Processing Unit support for offloading
- Improved vSphere integration: Better with vCenter Server 8.x
- Enhanced logging: More detailed diagnostic capabilities
- Updated web client: Modernized management interface
Removed/Deprecated Features
ESXi 8.x Changes:
- Legacy hardware support removed: Older CPUs and hardware no longer supported
- Deprecated APIs: Some older management APIs removed
- Simplified installation: Streamlined installer process
Licensing & Support
- ESXi 6.x: Extended support ending (varies by version)
- ESXi 8.x: Current generation with full support lifecycle
Migration Considerations
- Hardware compatibility: Verify new hardware requirements
- VM compatibility: May require VM hardware version updates
- Third-party tools: Check compatibility with backup, monitoring tools
- Training: Staff may need updated training for new features
Recommendation: ESXi 8.x is the current generation with better performance, security, and hardware support, but requires compatible hardware and careful planning for migration from ESXi 6.x environments.