To allow users to log in using Integrated Windows Authentication, you need to install the VMware Enhanced Authentication plugin. This plugin replaces the Client Integration Plugin (CIP) from vSphere 6.0.
In addition to Integrated Windows Authentication, the VMware Enhanced Authentication plugin also provides Windows-based smart card functionality. If you have the old CIP from a previous vSphere version installed on your machine, both plugins can coexist, and there are no conflicts.
The installation of the plugin is simple and straightforward:
- Using your favorite browser, open the vSphere Client by typing the address of your vCenter Server, https://<VCSA_IP>/ui.
- Click the Download Enhanced Authentication plugin option at the bottom of the page.
- Save the plugin on your machine and run the installer.
- When the installation has completed, refresh your browser. A Launch Application window may pop up in this step, asking for permission to run the Enhanced Authentication plugin.
If the VMware Enhanced Authentication plugin is installed from an Internet Explorer browser, you need to disable Protected Mode and enable pop-up windows.