Table of Contents
Introduction
Upgrading to ESXi 8.0.0 build 24784735 is critical for VMware environments, but a recurring problem is causing headaches:
After applying the patch, what we notice is ESXi build number not updating in vCenter, the updates tab shows stuck patches, and patch compliance checks fail. If you’re experiencing issues like the ESXi build number not updating, this practical guide will help you fix it—fast.
If you’re struggling with ESXi 8 stuck updates, patch compliance errors, or BIOS vs UEFI ESXi mode confusion, this practical guide will help you fix it—fast.
Why Does ESXi Build Number Not Update in vCenter?
Understanding the reasons behind the ESXi build number not updating is crucial for maintaining your VMware environment effectively. If VMware patch not visible in vcenter or ESXi build number not updating after applying build 24784735, these are the most common causes:
| Cause | Example/Error | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Boot Mode Set to BIOS (Legacy) | BIOS vs UEFI ESXi: vCenter compliance and patch inventory often fail in BIOS/Legacy mode. | Set boot mode to UEFI & reboot |
| vCenter Inventory Not Refreshed | Build number doesn’t change after patch. | Reconnect host / refresh inventory |
| Host Not Reconnected to vCenter | Manual patch applied, vCenter still shows old build. | Right-click > Connection > Reconnect |
| Lifecycle Manager Stuck Updates | Lifecycle Manager compliance check says “42 updates needed” even after patch. | Rescan/remediate baseline |
| Patch Baseline Not Updated | Patches applied outside vCenter’s baseline, causing mismatch. | Reimport or reattach baseline |
| vCenter/ESXi Agent Bugs | Agent (hostd/vpxa) glitches after major update. | Restart agents |
Tip: “esxi patch not visible in vcenter” is often related to stale compliance data or boot mode issues.
Step-by-Step Compliance & Patch Troubleshooting
Follow this step-by-step troubleshooting to resolve your ESXi 8.0.0 build 24784735 patch compliance issues and get your build number visible in vCenter:
1. Confirm Actual ESXi Build on Host
SSH into the ESXi host and run:
esxcli system version get– Should show: VMware ESXi 8.0.0 build-24784735
– If not, reapply the patch and retry.
2. Check and Change Boot Mode (BIOS vs UEFI ESXi)
Why it Matters
“BIOS vs UEFI ESXi” is a top cause of vmware patch compliance issues in 2025. vCenter and Lifecycle Manager expect UEFI mode for most patch workflows.
How to Fix:
- Reboot your host and enter firmware/BIOS setup (
DEL,F2, etc.). - Locate the Boot Mode setting.
- If set to BIOS/Legacy, change to UEFI.
- Save and reboot.
- Boot into ESXi and repeat step 1 to verify build.
3. Reconnect ESXi Host in vCenter
- In vCenter, right-click host → Connection → Reconnect
- This refreshes compliance and inventory data.
4. Run Compliance Check and Remediate in Lifecycle Manager
- Go to Lifecycle Manager > Updates for the host.
- Click Check Compliance.
- If you still see stuck updates or “esxi patch not visible in vcenter”, detach and reattach the patch baseline, then rescan.
- If needed, click Remediate to force patch inventory update.
5. Restart ESXi Management Agents (If Compliance Is Still Stuck)
SSH into host and run:
services.sh restart
or individually:
/etc/init.d/hostd restart
/etc/init.d/vpxa restart
6. Import or Update Patch Baseline
If patches were applied outside Lifecycle Manager, download the latest offline bundle, import into Lifecycle Manager, attach the correct baseline, and scan again.
BIOS vs UEFI ESXi: Does Boot Mode Impact Patching?
Yes! In VMware vSphere environments, using UEFI boot mode is now recommended for full compliance and seamless vCenter patch detection.
BIOS vs UEFI ESXi issues are increasingly reported in 2025 when using advanced vCenter features or security baselines.
| Boot Mode | Compliance & Patch Detection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BIOS/Legacy | Frequent issues, stuck updates, “patch not visible” | Legacy support; not recommended for ESXi 8+ |
| UEFI | Accurate, instant detection | Needed for modern patching, secure boot, automation |
Recommendation: If you’re seeing repeated esxi 8 stuck updates, esxi build number not updating, or other compliance failures, check your boot mode first!
Expert Tips for ESXi Patch Compliance
- Always patch via vCenter Lifecycle Manager when possible for best compliance tracking.
- Standardize on UEFI boot for all new ESXi deployments.
- After every patch, check build with SSH AND in vCenter to confirm sync.
- If updating outside Lifecycle Manager, always refresh/reimport baselines.
- Document server boot mode in your inventory—avoid future confusion!
FAQ: Quick Fixes for Stuck Updates
Q: Why is my ESXi build number not updating in vCenter?
A: Most often, either the vCenter inventory hasn’t refreshed, or you’re using BIOS instead of UEFI. Try reconnecting the host, refreshing compliance, and setting boot mode to UEFI.
Q: Does BIOS vs UEFI ESXi really matter for patching?
A: Yes, especially for compliance and automation workflows. Always use UEFI for ESXi 8+.
Q: My Lifecycle Manager still shows stuck updates—what next?
A: Restart agents, rescan compliance, and if needed, reimport patch baselines.