Deploying VM from vmdk / vmx file

vmware-esxivmware-vsphere

I have a vmdk file and vmx file (and all the other files from someone elses datastore) copied onto my own data store. If I try to deploy from the vmx file, I get a vm with the name "unknown # (invalid)" where # is a sequential number depending on how many times I've tried. If I try to deploy from vmdk, I get an unbootable VM.

Is there an easy way to get a VM up and running from the VM folder?

Edit: When I try to deploy from VMX file, I get this vm:

uknown vm

and I am not able to edit the settings or power it up.

EDIT:

We fixed the issue. The file was given to us from VMPlayer and the hardware version was incompatible. We lowered the HW Version and exported as an .ova file. From there we were able to import into vCenter.

Best Answer

Are you using the vSphere client? If so, your key is to use the .vmx file.

Generically (without details on versions, etc.), this is accomplished by browsing the datastore, navigating to the VM's folder, right-clicking the relevant .vmx file and Adding the VM to your inventory.

From there, you should have a VM available in your datacenter (or host) inventory. That's when you'd be able to power on the virtual machine.

enter image description here

Edit:

If the .vmx is no good, you can create a NEW virtual machine...

enter image description here

  • Select "Custom".
  • Configure with the requisite specifications.
  • When you get to the "Select a Disk" portion, choose "Use an existing virtual disk".
  • This will open a dialog where you can browse to the .VMDK file.
  • Complete the setup.
  • Profit.
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