Configure a VA in VMWare to Use VMXNET3 Adapters

Introduction

This document describes how to modify a VA in VMWare to use VMXNET3 adapters instead of E1000 for Cisco Umbrella.

Prerequisites

Requirements

There are no specific requirements for this document.

Components Used

The information in this document is based on Cisco Umbrella.

The information in this document was created from the devices in a specific lab environment. All of the devices used in this document started with a cleared (default) configuration. If your network is live, ensure that you understand the potential impact of any command.

Overview

You have found that using the VMXNET Generation 3 (VMXNET3) adapters in VMWare for the Virtual Appliance works better in your environment. The VMXNET3 adapter can provide better performance due to less overhead compared with the traditional E1000 NIC. Umbrella does not have a specific recommendation one way or the other. However, the VMXNET3 configuration is supported.

Procedure

Note: These steps change the MAC Address. If you need to keep the same MAC with the new VMXNET3 adapter then you must make a note of the E1000 MAC prior to removing it. When creating the new adapter, you must change the MAC Address to Manual and put in the original E1000 MAC.

In order to switch your Virtual Appliance from the previous adapter to use the VMXNET3, complete these steps:

1. In the VMWare Console, power off your Virtual Appliance.

2. Right-click the Virtual Appliance and select Settings.

3. Select Network Adapter 1, then select Remove.

4. Select Add> Network Adapter.

5. Under Type, select VMXNET3.

6. Select the proper network.

7. Select Next, then OK.

8. In the VMWare Console, power on your Virtual Appliance.

9. Check both within the VA Console and on the Umbrella Dashboard for any errors communicating with Umbrella Resolvers.