When should you consider upgrading VM hardware?

Upgrading VM hardware should primarily be considered when new features that enhance the functionality or capabilities of the virtual machine are required. Each version of VMware Tools and the virtual hardware itself can introduce significant improvements, such as support for new guest operating systems, enhanced resource management, storage options, and more efficient networking capabilities. These features can provide better performance, increased functionality, or new capabilities that directly benefit the applications running within the VMs.

Updating hardware simply to access these features can bring about enhanced reliability, security, and performance; therefore, making a decision based on the need for these advancements is a strategic approach. On the other hand, routine upgrades independent of necessity, such as merely coinciding with a new ESXi version or adopting a yearly schedule, may lead to unnecessary complexity and resource expenditure without providing tangible benefits to the virtual environment. Upgrading solely in response to performance issues also does not proactively address potential improvements that future features can offer before problems arise. Focusing on new feature requirements ensures that the VM hardware is aligned with the evolving needs of the business and the applications it supports.