To upgrade the VM compatibility level of a virtual machine in VMware ESXi, follow the steps given below:
- Log in to the ESXi host containing the virtual machines
- Select Virtual Machine and Shutdown or Power Off the same for which you want to upgrade the VM compatibility.
- Go to the Upgrade VM Compatibility option under the Actions menu.
- Select the compatibility level to which you want to upgrade. It is preferable that you must choose the latest level of compatibility.
- Read the message “This operation changes the compatibility of your virtual machine. It is an irreversible operation that makes your virtual machine incompatible with earlier versions of VMware software products. Make a backup copy of your virtual machine files before proceeding. Upgrade your compatibility?” and confirm the message by clicking on the Yes button.
- Now compatibility level of the selected VM has been upgraded to the latest.
- Note: If the Upgrade VM Compatibility option is greyed out then it means either the VM compatibility level is already upgraded or VM is started (power on).
Last Updated: August 12, 2020