Unable to connect to the MKS: Could not connect to pipe \\.\pipe\vmware-authdpipe

[PeterJC]

I am having this issue with one of my ESXi hosts:

Launching a console connection to a virtual machine fails with the error: Unable to connect to the MKS: Could not connect to pipe \\.\pipe\vmware-authdpipe

Any VM on that host has the problem - migrate the VM to another host no problem so it is definitely related to the host.  The issue happens with different VI clients and happens when I am connected to vCenter or even directly connected to the host with the VI client. 

I have checked:

-Turned off the FW on the host and vCenter server incase that was blocking port 902/903

-Ensured that the workstation, vCenter Server and ESXi host all use the same DNS and all host names etc are correct.

-Removed the host from the vCenter and re-added it

-Rebooted vCenter and the host and the workstations

-Flush DNS cache on all machines

I am stumped as to what to try next - don't want to rebuild the server does anyone else have any causes for this error?  And I have been through the KB below - so any ideas?

http://kb.vmware.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?cmd=displayKC&docType=kc&externalId=2115126&sl...

[adamwiso]

Does this particular host have a L3 gateway defined and I have seen this with name resolution issues on a host of mine a few years back, check DNS.

[Nithy07cs055]

You need to check the DNS entry and port 902 and 903 are allowed ,..