how to install vmkfstools

[dbutch1976]

Hi everyone,

Another newbie question: I am trying to use vmkfstools from the SSL console to convert a virtual appliance so that I can use it on my ESX server. Every time I try to run:

vmkfstools -i

I get the error:

bash: vmkfstools: command not found

# vmkfstolls

Question1: Do I need to install this program? I thought it was part of the base install...?

Also, could someone help me with the syntax of the command?

vmkfstools -i <folder>/<filename>.vmdk <vmhba number>:<filename>dsk

Question 2: What is a vmhba number??? How do I find it out and do I really need to enter it??

Question3: I assume that <filename>dsk is the output name of the new file... correct?

Thanks in advance for your help.

[lamw]

If you're using classic ESX, the path to vmkfstools is /usr/sbin/vmkfstools and it's installed by default.

The -i option is for cloning a virtual disk and the format is the following:

/usr/sbin/vmkfstools -i <src_vmdk> -d <format> <dst_vmdk>

If you don't specify the disk format, then it'll assume the source disk format

You can always run /usr/sbin/vmkfstools to get a list of available options/usage

=========================================================================

William Lam

VMware vExpert 2009

VMware ESX/ESXi scripts and resources at:

If you find this information useful, please award points for "correct" or "helpful".

[dbutch1976]

OK I've found that directory and I can see that the program is definately there, but even when I type vmkfstools in the directory I get the same error. I guess that's how unix works though, if there's something missing it just errors.

Also, I'm not trying to clone the disk, I downloaded the vyatta virtual appliance (which I understand is in the format used by VMWARE server) and I'm trying to convert it so that I can mount in on my ESX server. I've been told that the syntax of the command I need to use in order to do this is:

vmkfstools -i <folder>/<filename>.vmdk <vmhba number>:<filename>dsk

What is the vmhba number mentioned in the command? How do I find it?

[Texiwill · Accepted solution]

Hello,

The better way would be to import the appliance using VMware Converter. It handles everything you need from the GUI.

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[dbutch1976]

"Hello,

The better way would be to import the appliance using VMware Converter. It handles everything you need from the GUI"

Thanks so much, this solution is way simplier for a windows guy like me!!

[Ranjit3770]

/usr/sbin/vmkfstools: No such file or directory

Hai Sir,

    It's not installed by default. please let me know

[scott28tt]

@Ranjit3770 
See this: https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-vSphere/7.0/com.vmware.vsphere.storage.doc/GUID-A5D85C33-A510-4A3E...