new install with *.vmdk created in VMware workstation

[neuse]

i was able to get my first installation of ESXi working today. however, i did not see a way to import and export nor have file level access to manipulate files and folders. so, how do you import *.vmdk files created in VMware Workstation and get them to work in ESXi?

i understand ESXi may be free yet got the impression that vSphere was not free and is required to manipulate ESXi. it looks like the vMotion application handles the import/export nicely yet is also a fee-based product.

i do not mind paying for product yet want to make sure i understand what i'm getting into first.

any words of wisdom on import/export/file level access?

[mikelane · Accepted solution]

ESXi is free - you pay for the enterprise features such as virtual center, high availability and vmotion etc

To manage ESXi you need to download the vSphere Client (it is part of Vsphere 4.1 installable download): http://downloads.vmware.com/d/details/esxi41/ZHcqYmRoaGRiZHRAag==

To import your virtual machine you can download VMware VCenter Standalone Converter: http://downloads.vmware.com/d/details/converter401/dGhiZHRwaGJ0QGg=

[neuse]

thanks. VMware vCenter Converter Standalone now installed. that was the missing piece.

however, i still have a snag when i specify destination and get "The session is not authenticated" despite entering the host, username and password. any ideas what might make that issue go away? methinks i am almost there...

[neuse]

i just Googled the error and found answer in this forum to reboot box that has converter. i'm on it.