HOWTO move an ESXi host from one vCenter to another

Remember, it’s essential to refer to VMware documentation for troubleshooting specific errors: http://ww.VMWare.com

Prerequisites *

Ensure compatibility between vCenter versions.
Backup all VMs and configurations.
Verify that network settings and storage are accessible from the new vCenter.

Procedure

1. Prepare the ESXi Host

Disconnect from the Current vCenter: In the vSphere Web Client, right-click the ESXi host and select “Disconnect.”
Remove the Host: After disconnecting, right-click the ESXi host again and select “Remove from Inventory.” Confirm the action.

2. Verify Host Status

Check that the host is no longer listed under the original vCenter. This might take time, depending on several factors.

3. Access the New vCenter

4. Add the ESXi Host to the New vCenter

Navigate to Datacenter: In the vSphere Client, right-click the datacenter where you want to add the host and select “Add Host.”
Enter Host Details: Input the FQDN or IP address and administrative credentials for the ESXi host.
Select License: Choose the relevant license for the ESXi host, if required.

5. Assign Resources

Choose Resource Pool: If using resource pools, select the appropriate resource pool for the host.
Configure Networking: Ensure that networking settings (vSwitches, port groups) are all correctly set up in the new vCenter.
Storage Configuration: Ensure that datastores are accessible by the ESXi host and are compatible with the new vCenter.

6. Complete the Wizard

Review the settings and click “Finish” to add the host to the new vCenter.

7. Review and Reconfigure Settings

Check host settings: Ensure that any advanced configurations, such as host profiles or resource allocations, are updated.
Validate with networking and storage configurations.
Re-enable any necessary services (e.g., DRS, HA) if applicable.

8. Power On VMs (if necessary)

If there were any powered-off VMs during the migration, power them back on and verify that they function correctly in the new environment.

Post Migration Tasks

Test Functionality: Ensure that all VMs are operational and that the host is integrated properly into the new vCenter.
Backup Configuration: Create a backup of the new configuration for future reference.

* Of course, this procedure is the process to use after validating availability with stakeholders, submitting necessary change control documents, and adhering to all managerial requirements for notifications.