Could someone clarify to me the pros and cons on which PCNS method for VM Ware one should use?

[bbiandov_apc]

Hi everyone,

This post is in the context of PowerChute Network Shutdown v4.2 for Virtualization, specifically within the realm of ESXi single host protection. 

It appears that there are 2 paths one would take:

a) using the OVA appliance PCNS_4.2_OVF10.zip which simply imports into the ESXi and then becomes a tiny CentOS VM which signals the host when to shut down.

b) using pcns420ESXi.tar.gz which actually installs as an executable within the ESXi OS itself; much like the windows version of PCNS installs and runs on the host OS (Hyper-V in the windows realm).

What are the pros and cons of each? Which one is the approach that you gurus would recommend?

IMHO I like the tar.gz approach since it signals the hypervisor "internally" meaning the OVA still would require network connectivity even though that connectivity is to the host where the OVA itself is running. For example a down physical interface on ESXi would prevent that; ironic since the OVA just needs to communicate with the hypervisor on which it's running.

Your thoughts?
Thanks

~B

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Hi,

On 10/20/2017 5:36 PM, Boyan said:

a) using the OVA appliance PCNS_4.2_OVF10.zip which simply imports into the ESXi and then becomes a tiny CentOS VM which signals the host when to shut down.

This is the recommended option however the version of CentOS that is provided is at end of life so if that is a concern you should install VMware vMA as the client system on the host and then install PCNS420ESXi.tar.gz on the vMA. See Schneider Electric FAQ FA313604

On 10/20/2017 5:36 PM, Boyan said:

b) using pcns420ESXi.tar.gz which actually installs as an executable within the ESXi OS itself; much like the windows version of PCNS installs and runs on the host OS (Hyper-V in the windows realm).

The version mentioned is not designed ot be installed on the host. The file mentioned is designed to be install on VMware vMA as I discussed for question a. 

NOTE:  Installing any software directly on a VMware ESXi host voids any VMware warranty and PCNS has never been tested as such.