Lifecycle Manager Definitions

Question 1

Update

Answer 1

A software release that makes small changes to the current version, such as vSphere 7.0 Update 1, 7.0 Update 2, and so on.

Question 2

Upgrade

Answer 2

A software release that introduces major changes to the software. For example, you can upgrade from vSphere 6.5 to 6.7 and 7.0.

Question 3

Patch

Answer 3

A small software update that provides bug fixes or enhancements to the current version of the software, such as 7.0a, 7.0 Update 1a, and so on.

Question 4

VIB (vSphere Installation Bundle)

Answer 4

The smallest installable software package (metadata and binary payload) for ESXi.

Question 5

VIB metadata

Answer 5

An XML file that describes the contents of the VIB, including dependency information, textual descriptions, system requirements, and information about bulletins.

Question 6

Standalone VIB

Answer 6

A VIB that is not included in a component.

Question 7

Depot

Answer 7

The hosted version of updates provided by VMware, OEMs, and third-party software vendors, containing the metadata and the actual VIBs.

Question 8

Offline bundle/offline depot

Answer 8

An archive (ZIP file) that contains VIBs and metadata that you use for offline patching and updates. A single offline bundle might contain multiple base images, vendor add-ons, or components.

Question 9

OEM (original equipment manufacturer)

Answer 9

A VMware partner, such as Dell, HPE, or VMware Cloud on AWS.

Question 10

Third-party software provider

Answer 10

A provider of I/O filters, device drivers, CIM modules, and so on.