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September 3rd, 2024Minisforum MS-A2 Firmware UEFI BIOS Update | Part 2 – Hancock’s VMware Half Hour
July 16th, 2025Welcome back to another episode of Hancock’s VMware Half Hour! In this video, we take you step-by-step through updating the UEFI BIOS on the Minisforum MS-A2, upgrading from version 1.0.1 to 1.0.2 – all from a very hot #homelab (35°C!).
We walk through downloading the BIOS update, prepping the system (disabling Secure Boot), launching the UEFI shell, and flashing the firmware using EfiFlash.nsh. There’s even a little pop culture nod to Toto and The Wizard of Oz ??, plus a shout-out to VMware vExperts like Daniel Kreiger, William Lam, and Stephen Wagner!
Chapters Included:
Setting up the MS-A2 for flashing
Booting into the UEFI Shell
Running the flash process
Successfully installing BIOS 1.0.2
VMware vExpert tips and how to apply
Post-update validation
Whether you’re a fellow VMware homelabber or just updating your own MS-A2 device, this guide will walk you through it with humour, precision, and heat-induced delirium.
Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe and Share if this helped you out!
Useful Links:
Minisforum MS-A2 BIOS Downloads
Unboxing the Minisforum MS-A2 and Installing 128GB RAM: A Homelab Powerhouse!
July 15th, 2025
If you’ve followed Andysworld.org for any length of time, you’ll know I’m always on the lookout for compact, powerful systems that pack a serious punch — especially for virtualization, homelab testing, and edge computing. The Minisforum MS-A2 just landed on my desk, and I couldn’t wait to tear into it, max out the RAM, and see how this tiny monster performs.
Why the Minisforum MS-A2?
Minisforum has carved out a strong niche in the mini PC market, but the MS-A2 is something different. Designed around the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX (a 16-core, 32-thread beast), this unit is built for power users: developers, sysadmins, content creators, and homelab enthusiasts like myself.
The MS-A2 offers:
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AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX (Zen 4, 5nm, 16C/32T)
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Up to 128GB DDR5 SODIMM RAM
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Quadruple PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 slots
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Dual 2.5G Ethernet, Dual 10G SFP+
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USB 4.0 / HDMI 2.1 / USB-C
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Compact footprint with surprisingly good thermals
With specs like that, it’s an ideal candidate for running Proxmox, VMware ESXi, KVM, or even just as a hyper-efficient workstation.
The Unboxing Experience
Right out of the box, the MS-A2 gives off a premium vibe. The packaging is minimalist but well thought out. Inside you’ll find:
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The MS-A2 unit itself (dense, solid, well-built)
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120W or 180W power adapter (depending on config)
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Mounting hardware
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User manual and warranty information
Ports are plentiful and logically laid out. It even includes USB 4.0 and dual LAN ports — a must for virtualized networking setups in a homelab.
Installing 128GB DDR5 RAM
This is where things get exciting.
The MS-A2 officially supports up to 128GB of DDR5 SODIMM RAM (2x 64GB modules). While 64GB used to be the ceiling for mini PCs, the MS-A2 pushes those boundaries.
Here’s how I installed the RAM:
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Power Down and Open the Chassis:
Remove the bottom screws (Torx) and gently lift the cover. The internals are neatly laid out. -
Locate the SODIMM Slots:
There are two DDR5 SODIMM slots accessible without needing to remove any other components. -
Install 2x 64GB DDR5 4800MHz Modules:
I used Kingston DDR5 SODIMMs — click, click, done. -
Reassemble and Boot:
Replace the cover, screw it down, plug it in, and power on. -
Check BIOS/UEFI:
The system immediately recognised the full 128GB RAM without issue.
Initial Impressions & Performance Potential
I haven’t fully benchmarked it yet, but early signs are strong. This thing is built for virtualization and power-intensive workflows. With 128GB RAM, you could comfortably run:
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Nested vSphere or ESXi environments
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A full Proxmox VE cluster in one box
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Multiple Linux and Windows VMs for testing
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Container platforms like Docker, Podman, or Kubernetes
The dual 2.5G NICs are ideal for setting up a virtualized network or using VLANs for isolated testing.
Thermals remained under control during initial tests, thanks to the robust cooling design. The unit is quieter than expected even under moderate load.
Who Is the MS-A2 For?
If you’re:
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A homelab enthusiast looking to consolidate noisy, aging servers
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A virtualization geek building a portable test lab
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A developer or DevOps engineer running VMs or containers
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Or just someone wanting a high-end mini PC that doesn’t take up half a desk…
…the MS-A2 is absolutely worth your consideration.
What’s Next?
In the next blog post, I’ll benchmark this machine with:
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Proxmox VE running multiple VMs
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VMware ESXi 8.0 (yes, it installs!)
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Synthetic CPU, disk, and memory benchmarks
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Power draw and thermal tests
And maybe even try some GPU passthrough.
Final Thoughts
The Minisforum MS-A2 is a seriously impressive piece of kit. It proves that small doesn’t have to mean slow or limited. With 128GB DDR5 RAM, Ryzen 9 power, and robust I/O, it’s more than capable of replacing a rackmount server for many use cases — and it’ll fit in your backpack.
Stay tuned for more testing, benchmarks, and homelab setup tips.
Cheers,
Andrew
Minisforum MS-A2 – The Ultimate #Homelab Server for VMware vSphere, VVF, and VCF?
June 30th, 2025Lately, it feels like every VMware vExpert has been posting photos of their compact lab servers — and I’ll be honest, I was starting to feel left out.
So, I joined the club.
I picked up the new Minisforum MS-A2, and I’ve not looked back. This isn’t just another NUC alternative — it’s a serious powerhouse in a tiny chassis, perfect for VMware enthusiasts building or upgrading their vSphere, VVF, or VCF test environments.
Let’s dig into what makes this little beast a perfect addition to any #homelab setup in 2025.
Hardware Highlights – Not Your Average Mini PC
The MS-A2 isn’t just punching above its weight — it’s redefining what’s possible in a compact lab node.
Key Specs:
CPU: AMD Ryzen™ 9 9955HX – 16 cores / 32 threads of Zen 5 power
Memory: Dual DDR5-5600MHz SODIMM slots – up to 96GB officially, but…
Storage:
3× M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots (22110 supported)
Supports U.2 NVMe – great for enterprise-grade flash
Networking:
Dual 10Gbps SFP+ LAN
Dual 2.5GbE RJ45 ports
Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3 (going to replace this with more NVMe storage!)
Expansion:
Built-in PCIe x16 slot (supports split mode – ideal for GPUs, HBAs, or NICs)
This is homelab gold. It gives you the raw compute of a full rack server, the storage flexibility of a SAN box, and the network fabric of a modern datacenter — all under 2L in size.
How I Configured Mine – still sealed in box as I write – video incoming!
I purchased mine barebones from Amazon, and — as of writing — it’s still sealed in the box. Why? I’m waiting for all the parts to arrive.
Most importantly, I’ll be upgrading it with:
128GB of Crucial DDR5-5600 SODIMMs (2×64GB) — pushing beyond the official spec to see just how much performance this little box can handle.
Once everything’s here, I’ll be unboxing and assembling it live on a future episode of Hancock’s VMware Half Hour. Stay tuned if you want a front-row seat to the full setup, testing, and VMware lab deployment.
Perfect for VMware Labs: vSphere 8/9, VVF, and VCF
Whether you’re testing ESXi on bare metal or running full nested labs, this spec ticks every box.
ESXi Bare Metal Capable
The Ryzen 9 9955HX and AMD chipset boot vSphere 8.0U2 and 9.0 Tech Preview cleanly with minimal tweaks. Use community networking drivers or USB NIC injectors if needed.
VVF / VCF in a Box
If you’re exploring VMware Validated Foundation (VVF) or want a self-contained VCF lab for learning:
16C/32T lets you run nested 3-node ESXi clusters + vCenter + NSX-T comfortably
128GB RAM gives breathing room for resource-heavy components like SDDC Manager
PCIe 4.0 + U.2 = blazing fast vSAN storage
Dual 10Gb SFP+ = NSX-T overlay performance lab-ready
Community Validation – I Was Late to the Party
Fellow vExpert Daniel Krieger was ahead of the curve — writing about the MS-A2 months ago in his excellent blog post here:
sdn-warrior.org/posts/ms-a2
Then vExpert William Lam added his voice to the conversation with a guide to running VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) on the MS-A2:
williamlam.com/2025/06/vmware-cloud-foundation-vcf-on-minisforum-ms-a2.html
Seeing both of them validate the MS-A2 pushed me over the edge — and I’m glad I jumped in.
Setup Tips (Soon!)
Once the unboxing is done, I’ll share:
BIOS tweaks: SVM, IOMMU, PCIe bifurcation
NIC setup for ESXi USB fling and 10GbE DAC
Storage layout for vSAN and U.2/NVMe configs
Full nested VCF/VVF deployment guide
Considerations
Still not officially VMware HCL — but community-tested
Ryzen platform lacks ECC memory — standard for most mini-PC builds
PCI passthrough needs thoughtful planning for IOMMU groupings
Ideal Use Cases
Nested ESXi, vSAN, vCenter, NSX labs
VVF deployment simulations
VCF lifecycle manager testing
Tanzu Kubernetes Grid
NSX-T Edge simulations on 10GbE
GPU or high-speed NIC via PCIe slot for advanced lab scenarios
Final Thoughts
The Minisforum MS-A2 with Ryzen 9 9955HX is a serious contender for the best compact homelab system of 2025. Whether you’re diving into vSphere 9, experimenting with VVF, or simulating a full VCF environment, this mini server brings serious firepower.
It may still be in the box for now —
—but soon, it’ll be front and center on Hancock’s VMware Half Hour, ready to power the next chapter of my lab.
Join the Conversation
Got an MS-A2 or similar mini-monster? Share your specs, test results, or VMware experience — and tag it:
#VMware #vSphere #VCF #VVF #homelab #MinisforumMSA2 #10GbE #vExpert
HOW TO: Add an ESXi 9 0 Host to vCenter Server 9 0 | VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide
June 19th, 2025Enjoying the content? Support me with an espresso coffee! Buy Me an Espresso Coffee! – https://buymeacoffee.com/einsteinagogo
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In this hands-on tutorial, I walk you through the process of adding an ESXi 9.0 host to vCenter Server 9.0 — a crucial step in building out your VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 environment.
This video is part of the VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide series and is ideal for system administrators, cloud architects, and home lab enthusiasts looking to expand their infrastructure using the latest VMware technologies.
You’ll learn how to:
Prepare your ESXi 9.0 host for integration
Connect the host to vCenter 9.0
Assign networking and licensing
Verify the host is ready for VCF deployment
Compatible with vSphere 8.x, NSX 4.x, and VCF 9.x
Perfect for lab builds, proof-of-concept, or production rollouts
Have questions or run into issues? Drop a comment and I’ll be glad to help.
Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and Click the Bell to stay updated with the latest VMware and vExpert content!
#VMware #ESXi9 #vCenter9 #VCF9 #CloudFoundation #vSphere8 #VCFDeployment #VMwareTutorial #HomeLab #VMwareLab #SDDC #VMwareCloud #VMwarevExpert #VCFGuide
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HOW TO: Deploy, Install and Configure VCF 9.0 Installer | VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide
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Unlock the full power of VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 with this in-depth, step-by-step tutorial! In this video, I walk you through the complete process of deploying, installing, and configuring the VCF 9.0 Installer — from downloading the bundle to initial setup and system configuration.
Whether you’re a VMware admin, cloud architect, or just starting with VCF, this guide will help you confidently deploy your management domain using the new VCF 9.0 enhancements.
Fully compatible with vSphere 8 and NSX 4
Covers deployment of the Management Domain using the new SDDC Manager
Designed for enterprise environments
Have questions? Drop them in the comments and I’ll help where I can.
Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and Hit the Bell icon for more VMware and vExpert tutorials!
#VMware #VCF #CloudFoundation #VMwareCloudFoundation #VCF9 #vSphere8 #NSX #SDDCManager #HomeLab #VMwareTutorial #VMwareLab #VMwarevExpert #vexpert
Watch the newest videos in the series:
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HOW TO: Install VMware vCenter Server 9 0 | VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide
June 18th, 2025Enjoying the content? Support me with an espresso coffee! Buy Me an Espresso Coffee! – https://buymeacoffee.com/einsteinagogo
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In this detailed tutorial, we guide you through the installation and initial configuration of VMware vCenter Server 9.0, a critical management component in VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) 9.0 environments. Whether you’re deploying in a home lab, testing environment, or preparing for production, this video walks you through every step.
What’s Covered in This Video:
Overview of vCenter 9.0 and its role in VCF 9.0
System requirements and deployment options
Preparing the vCenter Server 9.0 ISO/OVA
Step-by-step installer walkthrough (Stage 1 & 2)
Configuring SSO domain, time sync, and networking
Accessing the vSphere Web Client (UI)
Best practices for post-install configuration
Why vCenter 9.0?
vCenter Server 9.0 introduces platform enhancements, improved lifecycle management, and tight integration with VCF 9.0, making it the control center of your modern Software-Defined Data Center (SDDC).
Prerequisites:
ESXi 9.0 host deployed and reachable
DNS entries in place (forward/reverse)
vCenter Server 9.0 ISO/OVA from VMware Customer Connect
Like this video? Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications for more VMware tutorials and cloud infrastructure content.
Got questions about vCenter 9.0 or VCF 9.0? Drop a comment below — we respond to every one!
#VMware #vCenter9 #VCF9 #vCenterServer9 #VMwareCloudFoundation #VMware2025 #SDDC #VMwarevSphere #EnterpriseIT #VMwareTutorial #vExpert
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HOW TO: Install VMware vSphere Hypervisor ESXi 9 0 | VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide
June 18th, 2025
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How to Install VMware vSphere ESXi 9.0 | VCF 9.0 Component Deployment Guide ?
In this step-by-step tutorial, we walk you through the installation of VMware vSphere ESXi 9.0, a foundational hypervisor within the VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) 9.0 stack. Whether you’re building a lab, staging a production deployment, or simply exploring the latest VMware offerings, this guide will help you get started quickly and confidently.
What You’ll Learn:
Overview of ESXi 9.0 and its role in VCF 9.0
Preparing installation media (ISO/bootable USB)
Recommended BIOS/UEFI settings
Step-by-step ESXi 9.0 installation
Post-installation configuration (network, root password, SSH, etc.)
Accessing the ESXi Host Client
Key tips and best practices for stability and performance
Why ESXi 9.0?
VMware vSphere ESXi 9.0 brings increased performance, updated hardware support, and is a critical part of the modern VCF 9.0 infrastructure platform—enabling fully automated SDDC (Software-Defined Data Center) deployment and management.
Requirements:
Compatible server or VM platform
ESXi 9.0 ISO (from VMware Customer Connect)
Basic understanding of virtualization concepts
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the for more VMware tutorials and enterprise IT content!
Got questions about the installation? Drop them in the comments—we’re here to help!
#VMware #vSphere9 #ESXi9 #VCF9 #VMwareCloudFoundation #Virtualization #Homelab #EnterpriseIT #vExpert #VCF #VVF
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HOW TO: Fix Raspberry Pi CM5 framebuffer Issue with ESXi 8.0.3 ARM NOW!
June 14th, 2025Are you tired of dealing with the Raspberry Pi 5 frame buffer issue when running ESXi ARM? In this video, we’ll show you a step-by-step guide on how to fix this frustrating problem and get your Raspberry Pi 5 up and running smoothly with ESXi ARM. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, this tutorial is perfect for anyone looking to troubleshoot and resolve the frame buffer issue on their Raspberry Pi 5. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and get started!
What’s Occurin’ on Andysworld!
June 6th, 2025Hey everyone — welcome back to Andysworld!, where there’s always something bubbling in the pot (usually tech-flavoured, sometimes coffee, sometimes bees).
500 Hacks a Day — Mission Accomplished!
After a consistent streak of daily pwnage, I’ve finally hit 500 hacks a day on TryHackMe! It’s been an epic ride, sharpening my skills and staying sharp in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. But… that’s it for now. As much as I’ve loved the challenge, life’s too hectic to keep up the daily grind — and honestly, it’s time to re-balance.
Still, 500-a-day? I’ll take that win ?
Hancock’s VMware Half Hour – Rolling On
If you’ve not tuned into Hancock’s VMware Half Hour yet, what are you doing? ? The YouTube channel is keeping me plenty busy — but it’s worth every minute. From real-world scenarios to community spotlights and the latest from the VMwareverse, it’s been great to share stories, learn, and laugh with fellow techies around the world.
Catch the next episode if you haven’t already — things are just heating up.
vExpert PRO – 5 Years Strong!
Big news landed this month — I’m proud (and humbled) to announce that I’ve been recognised as a VMware vExpert PRO for the fifth year running. Not only that, but I’ve also picked up the vExpert VCF badge, too!
This recognition means a lot — it’s not just about titles; it’s about community, contribution, and passion. The vExpert family has been a huge part of my journey, and it’s an honour to continue helping others grow and succeed in the ecosystem.
and that’s not forget the Bees !
Beekeeping at Meltonby Honey
Bees are a mixed bag this is to say, some are doing really well, and some are not doing so well, so this month of June, in the June Gap – need to start sorting out and selecting hives to work this Summer, and dare I say it starting Winter preparations, and a week today attend a Bee Health Day, sponsored by DEFRA !
That’s it for now — life’s buzzing, tech is flying, and the blog never sleeps (even if I do). Thanks to everyone who’s been along for the ride so far.
Until next time — stay curious, stay hacking, and don’t forget to say “What’s Occurin’?” ?
— Andy
Hacking for Fun (and Learning) on TryHackMe
June 6th, 2025
If you’ve been following me for a while — either here on Andysworld! or on social — you’ll probably have noticed I’ve got a bit of a thing for TryHackMe. That’s right: the gamified, hands-on cybersecurity platform that lets you “learn hacking the fun way.”
While I’ve worn many hats over the years — from building corporate desktops in the 90s to deploying Thin Clients, backing VMware before it was cool, and even keeping bees in my spare time — I’ve always had a quiet curiosity for cybersecurity.
But in recent years, that curiosity has turned into something more structured. I’ve been diving head-first into daily challenges, CTFs, and red team/blue team rooms on TryHackMe. Every day I log in and test my “hacking” and “penetration” skills. (Legally, of course. Let’s not get too excited.)
Why TryHackMe?
Simple: it’s accessible, addictive, and just plain fun. The platform breaks down complicated security concepts into digestible learning paths and real-world scenarios. Whether you’re into Linux fundamentals, web app hacking, or breaking into Windows environments, there’s something for everyone — and something new to learn every day.
I started with a few easy rooms — some were fun, some had me questioning my life choices — but before long I found myself chasing streaks, solving buffer overflows, exploiting SQL injections, and pivoting through internal networks like it was second nature. It’s part puzzle, part education, and part thrill.
That Daily Streak… and the Climb
I’ll admit it: I got hooked on the daily streak. There’s something about seeing that little flame icon next to your
name that sparks a sense of achievement. Each day I carve out time to complete at least one room, even if it’s a short task or a simple walkthrough. And in doing so, I’ve kept my streak alive and sharpened my skills without ever feeling like it’s a chore.
And here’s the kicker — recently, after being ranked #1,060 out of over 3 million TryHackMe users, I finally cracked the four-digit barrier and rose to #998!
Top 1,000 in the world. Not bad for a “beekeeper with a hacking habit,” eh?
Oh — and right now, I’m sitting on a 461-day hacking streak.
That’s right. 461 consecutive days of training, solving, cracking, and learning.
I’m not far off the 500-day HackStreak badge, and believe me — I will get there. It’s part stubbornness, part obsession, but mostly just a whole lot of fun.
What’s Next?
Honestly, I’d love to get into some deeper reverse engineering, exploit development, and maybe even take on some of the harder red team labs. And who knows — maybe I’ll finally take a proper cert (OffSec, I’m looking at you) just to prove to myself I can.
TryHackMe has rekindled my passion for hands-on learning, just like Experts Exchange did in the early days. It’s reminded me that whether you’re troubleshooting snapshots, spinning up ESXi hosts, or brute-forcing a login page, there’s always more to learn.
Whether you’re an old-school sysadmin like me, a student just starting out, or someone who’s just curious about hacking without getting arrested — I highly recommend giving TryHackMe a spin.
And if you’re already in the game — drop me a message. I’ll see you on the leaderboard ?
Want me to whip up a graphic showing your current rank and streak progress? I can give it that polished blog badge feel.
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