Abstract: Techniques are described for upgrading a virtualized network function (VNF) implemented in a virtualized computing environment configured in a user-specific configuration. The virtualized network function is implemented by a plurality of VNF components (VNFCs) executing in a plurality of virtual machines managed by a virtualized infrastructure manager (VIM). An upgrade component is configured to execute as a virtual resource and execute a series of operations that coordinate an upgrade of the VNFCs implementing the VNF and interact with the VIM and the virtual machines to effect the upgrade. A configuration file pertaining to a new software version defining the upgrade and a set of upgrade instructions. Based on the configuration file, the upgrade instructions are translated to a series of operations on the virtual machines and interactions with the VIM to effect the upgrade.