A Network File System (NFS) Datastore in vCenter refers to a storage location for virtual machines. It can occasionally become inaccessible due to various reasons such as network disruptions or NFS server failure. This article will explore the causes of inaccessibility, pre-removal checks to undertake, the removal process, error handling, and reconnection of the NFS Datastore.
Understanding NFS Datastores
NFS Datastores play a crucial role in VMware vSphere as storage repositories for virtual machine files. They interact with vCenter, VMware’s centralized platform for managing VMware vSphere environments, providing storage resources for the operation of virtual machines. The accessibility of NFS Datastores is vital to ensure the uninterrupted operation of these machines. However, various factors might cause these datastores to become inaccessible.
Reasons for Inaccessibility
Instances of inaccessibility can arise due to network disruptions, NFS server failures, issues with the NFS volume or export, or due to configuration changes in the infrastructure. These factors can make the datastore unavailable for use, affecting the normal operation of the virtual machines reliant on it.
Pre-removal Checks
Before removing an inaccessible NFS datastore, it is crucial to confirm its inaccessibility and cross-check network connections and configurations. Additionally, check for active or locked files that might be causing the issue. It’s also important to ensure that no active hosts or virtual machines are relying on the datastore before its removal. Also, we advise you to read about if the vmware vmfs datastore inaccessible for practical tips to help you fix this problem.
Steps to Remove Inaccessible NFS Datastore
Step-by-step instructions to unregister any VMs that rely on the inaccessible NFS datastore
- Log in to vCenter Server and navigate to the vSphere Client.
- In the vSphere Client inventory panel, navigate to the VMs and Templates view.
- Expand the datacenter and folder objects to expose the virtual machine objects.
- Select a virtual machine, right-click and choose “Remove from Inventory”. This will unregister the VM from the vCenter Server inventory.
- Confirm the action in the confirmation dialog box.
- Repeat the process for all VMs that rely on the inaccessible NFS datastore.
Process of unmounting the NFS datastore from all hosts
- In the vSphere Client, navigate to the Hosts and Clusters view.
- Select the host that has the NFS datastore mounted.
- Click on the “Configuration” tab, and then on “Storage” under the Hardware panel.
- Select the NFS datastore you wish to unmount and click “Unmount”.
- In the confirmation dialog box, verify the information and click “OK”.
- Repeat these steps for all hosts that have the NFS datastore mounted.
Procedure to remove the inaccessible NFS datastore from vCenter
- In the vSphere Client, navigate to the Hosts and Clusters view.
- Select the host that had the NFS datastore mounted.
- Click on the “Configuration” tab, and then on “Storage” under the Hardware panel.
- Select the NFS datastore you wish to delete and click “Delete”.
- In the confirmation dialog box, verify the information and click “OK”.
- The inaccessible NFS datastore should now be removed from vCenter.
Steps to ensure the removal was successful
- In the vSphere Client, navigate to the “Storage” view.
- Verify that the NFS datastore is no longer listed.
- Additionally, navigate to the Hosts and Clusters view, select each host, and verify that the NFS datastore is no longer listed under each host’s storage.
- If the NFS datastore is not listed in either of these locations, the removal process was successful.
Handling Errors and Troubleshooting
During the removal process, you might encounter errors, some of which might be due to network issues or locked files. Troubleshooting these common errors usually involves reviewing network configurations and unlocking files. If the errors persist, consider seeking professional support.
Reconnecting the NFS Datastore
Once the issues have been resolved, the NFS Datastore can be reconnected. The process involves addressing the accessibility issue that led to its removal, adding the NFS datastore back to vCenter, and verifying its accessibility and proper functioning.
Prevention and Best Practices
To prevent future inaccessibility of NFS datastores, regular maintenance and updates are essential. It is also recommended to follow best practices for maintaining and managing NFS datastores in vCenter, including regular checks of network connections and configurations.
Conclusion
Ensuring the accessibility of NFS datastores is vital for the smooth running of VMware vSphere environments. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on removing inaccessible NFS datastores, error handling, and reconnection of the datastore. However, it’s important to emphasize the need for preventative measures and routine maintenance to mitigate such issues from occurring in the future. Regular checks, updates, and adhering to best practices in managing NFS datastores in vCenter can go a long way in achieving this.
