Module 3: Installation

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Prepare bare-metal hardware for VergeOS installation (BIOS settings, disk controllers, networking)
• Perform a complete 2-node VergeOS installation from USB boot media
• Complete the post-installation verification checklist to confirm a healthy system
• Troubleshoot common installation issues and know when to escalate

Prerequisites

• Completion of Module 1: Architecture Fundamentals — understanding of node roles, core fabric, and cluster concepts
• Completion of Module 2: Sizing & Design — hardware has been selected and scoped

Estimated Time

2.5 hours (1 hour reading + 1.5 hours lab)

VMware Bridge

If you have installed VMware ESXi on bare metal, the VergeOS installation process will feel familiar — boot from USB, answer configuration prompts, and reboot into the hypervisor. Key differences: VergeOS installs the full stack (hypervisor + storage + networking) in a single pass with no separate vCenter deployment. Node 1 bootstraps the cluster and Node 2 joins automatically via the core fabric network.

Nutanix Bridge

If you have deployed Nutanix using Foundation, the VergeOS installation is conceptually similar — imaging bare-metal nodes to create a cluster. Key differences: VergeOS installs from a USB drive with no separate imaging tool, deploys the full stack (hypervisor + storage + networking) in a single pass with no CVM deployment step, and the second node joins automatically via the core fabric network rather than requiring manual cluster creation through Prism.

Topics

Pre-Installation Checklist

BIOS configuration, disk controller modes, network interface identification, and boot media preparation.

Controller Installation

Step-by-step installation of Node 1 (controller) and Node 2 (controller), including network configuration and cluster formation.

Adding Nodes

Scale-out nodes, storage-only nodes, and compute-only nodes — expanding your cluster beyond the initial 2-node deployment.

Post-Install Verification

Dashboard health checks, vSAN verification, network connectivity, initial configuration, and final deployment testing.

Lab: 2-Node Installation

Perform a complete VergeOS installation on a 2-node cluster using the Terraform playground or physical hardware.

Module Outline

1. Pre-Installation Checklist — Hardware readiness: BIOS, disk controllers, NIC identification, boot media
2. Controller Installation — Node 1 bootstrap, Node 2 join, cluster formation process
3. Adding Nodes — Scale-out, storage-only, and compute-only node installation
4. Post-Install Verification — Dashboard health checks, storage pool status, network connectivity tests
5. Lab: 2-Node Installation — Install VergeOS on a 2-node cluster and verify the deployment