Downgrading a VMware Virtual Machines hardware version

Understanding the VM Hardware Version

Each virtual hardware version corresponds to a specific VMware product version (e.g., ESXi 7.0 uses version 17). Downgrading is useful when moving a VM to an older ESXi host.

⚠️ Important Notes

• VMware does not officially support hardware version downgrades.

• Always take a full backup or snapshot before proceeding.

• You will need to edit the VMX file manually or export/import the VM in a compatible format.

Method 1: Downgrade via OVF Export/Import

1. Power off the VM.

2. Export the VM to OVF:

   • In vSphere Client: right-click VM > Template > Export OVF Template.

3. Edit the OVF file:

   • Locate the .ovf file and open it in a text editor.

   • Find and modify the virtual hardware version, e.g.:

     virtualHW.version = "17"

     Change to something like vmx-13 for compatibility with older ESXi.

4. Import the OVF into the older VMware environment.

Method 2: Manually Edit the VMX File

1. Power off the VM and remove it from inventory (do not delete).

2. SSH into the datastore or use the ESXi host file browser.

3. Locate the VM's .vmx file and download it.

4. Open the file in a text editor.

5. Look for a line like:
   
   

   virtualHW.version = "17"

   Change it to the desired version, such as "13".
   
   

6. Upload the .vmx file back and add the VM to inventory.

7. Power on the VM and ensure it functions properly.

Tips

• Check VMware compatibility matrix to match hardware versions with ESXi versions.

• Downgrading may cause issues with newer guest OS features, VM tools, or devices.

• If the VM fails to boot after a downgrade, revert to your backup or snapshot.