VxRail: VxRail Synchronous Release Commitment for vSphere Releases

VxRail customers are encouraged to stay informed and perform cluster updates when appropriate to benefit from the latest innovations, critical problem fixes, and security patches that Broadcom include in their vSphere releases. In support of this guidance, the goal between Dell and Broadcom is to deliver near synchronous releases where every new vSphere release is followed closely by the availability of a VxRail update bundle that supports that vSphere release. This agreement is intended to reinforce customer confidence that they can quickly reap the benefits of the latest vSphere software while running in a validated state that is delivered and driven by VxRail.

The synchronous release objective can be described as the number of calendar days after the general availability of a vSphere software release by when the supporting VxRail update bundle should be made available to VxRail customers. The number of calendar days depends on the type of vSphere software release.

• A Broadcom express patch (EPxx) is provided to customers to address serious issues such as security vulnerabilities or critical issue fixes. This type of patch can be a single fix or made up of multiple fixes. Because of the nature of these patches, there is no set schedule for their availability. The goal is to deliver a synchronous release within 14 calendar days of the express patch’s general availability.
• A Broadcom quarterly patch (Pxx) is a planned release that aggregates individual patches that have been released since the last quarterly patch. Because they are planned patches, there is more advanced notice of their availability by Broadcom. The goal is to deliver a synchronous release within 14 calendar days of the quarterly patch’s general availability.
• A Broadcom feature release (8.0 or 8.0 Update 1) is a planned release that introduces significant changes and new features. While VxRail may not initially support some of the new features, the goal is to deliver a synchronous release within 30 calendars days of the feature release’s general availability.

The synchronous release objective includes vSphere software (ESXi and vSAN). It does not include vRealize Automation and NSX-T software.

There is an exception to the synchronous release objective. If a vSphere release occurs right before a Dell company holiday period, Dell can extend the period to deliver the synchronous release by up to an extra seven calendar days. 

The VxRail synchronous release objective is part of the unique value differentiation in the VxRail offering. While the intention between Broadcom and Dell is not a legally binding contract, it represents an agreement that carries significant weight with our executive leadership teams. Per our agreed upon process, missing a synchronous release for any vSphere release requires approval from senior leadership and the executive leadership is notified.