How to Restore VMDK File in VMware ESXi – Fixed Complex Query

A Quick Recall About VMware ESXI & VMDK

VMware ESXi, generally referred to as ESXi, is an enterprise-class virtualization platform and a bare-metal hypervisor, developed by VMware, Inc. ESXi is a standalone hypervisor that does not run on a conventional operating system, but directly on the hardware of the physical server. This is designed to create and manage VMs(virtual machines) and provide virtualization services to different enterprises.

VMDK, short for Virtual Machine Disk, are vital component of VMware virtualization. It is essentially a file format used for storing the virtual hard drive’s contents, including the operating system, applications, and data. Additionally, it can be used for running multiple operating systems on a single physical machine, facilitating disaster recovery and backup processes.

Now, moving forward let us see how to restore VMDK file in VMware ESXi.

Recover Deleted VMDK File in ESXi Using vSphere Client

Before we get into the procedure, note that you need to have access to the VMware ESXi host. Also, it is a good practice to keep a regular backup of Virtual machines and their associated VMDK files to prevent data loss. Further, follow the steps mentioned below to retrieve VMDK file in VMware ESXi:

Step 1: Remove the Existing VMDK File

1. Firstly, start the VMware vSphere Client.
2. Log in to your ESXi host with the valid credentials.
3. Locate the “Hosts and Clusters” view in the vSphere Client.
4. Select the ESXi host where the virtual machine with its associated VMDK file is located.
5. Next, search and select the Virtual Machine for which you want to retrieve the VMDK file.
6. By right-clicking on the Virtual Machine, click on Edit Settings.
7. In the Edit Settings, select the existing VMDK file you want to restore and click Remove.

Step 2: Add the Backup VMDK File you want to Restore

Now, it is time to restore VMware VM from backup, following the methods as directed:

1. Again, in the edit settings window, click on
2. Select Hard Disk and click Next.
3. Next, opt for ‘Use an existing virtual disk’ and then hit Next.
4. Browse and find the backup VMDK file in your storage.
5. Tap Next and then hit Finish to add the VMDK file to a virtual machine.
6. To access the VMDK file, start the Virtual Machine and Log in to the operating system.
7. Verify if the restored VMDK file contains the desired data.

This is how to copy VMDK files from ESXi server using vSphere Client. However, the method is only feasible if you already have a backup of the VMDK file in your storage. If not, you need to find another reliable method, i.e., a professional tool.

How to restore VMDK file in VMware ESXi Professionally?

Among various tools available online, the VMDK Recovery Tool is an expert solution to repair corrupt and damaged VMDK files. This is a proficient tool to restore the maximum possible data from corrupt VMDK files. In addition, the tool is featured with dual scanning modes- standard and advanced, to deal with different levels of file corruption. You can also recover deleted files from Virtual Machine. Apart from this, it supports and recovers data from files saved in both Fixed disk and Dynamic disk types. Additionally, it has other features that make it your best choice.
Now, you might be wondering how to restore VMDK file in VMware ESXi Windows, using the VMDK Recovery Tool. Let us see how.

Steps to Recover Deleted VMDK File in ESXi

Do as directed:

1. Install and launch the SysInfo VMDK Recovery Software.
2. Choose the Disk Type and vmdkSplit type.
3. Click Browse to select the corrupt VMDK file, you want to repair. Click Next.
4. Now, choose the scanning mode and other settings. Hit Next.
5. Once the scanning is complete, choose the volume and you can add a custom volume.
6. Next, opt for the recovery mode and hit Now, the recovery process begins.

Hope, the steps mentioned can solve your query about how to copy VMDK files from ESXi server. Moreover, you can download the free version of the tool to evaluate how the tool works.

Conclusion

We have tried our best to provide you with the best solutions regarding ‘How to restore VMDK file in VMware ESXi.’ Well, VMDK files get corrupt or damaged due to various reasons like abrupt shutdown, application hindrance, etc. However, the best-suggested method to repair VMDKs is using an automated tool.

About The Author:

Simran Bhatia

Simran Bhatia is a technical content writer engaged in writing clear, concise, and SEO-optimized content. With a background in computer science and a passion for writing, I thrive to deliver complex technical content in simple layman terms.