How do I create a VM from a template using vSphere Automation Rest API?

[macadameane]

Apologies if this discussion is in the wrong category.

In vSphere 6.7, I have created some predefined Linux VMs in vSphere and have converted them to templates. The rest/vcenter/vm-template/library-items path allows deployment of a library item to a VM. I created a library and cloned my templates into the library. These always clone as OVF templates.

When running the call in postman, I get an error back stating has type 'ovf', but needs to be of type 'vm-template'. How do I achieve this? I haven't figured out a way to either retrieve the original templates as library items (to obtain an item id) or to explicitly add new templates to a library in a way that isn't OVF.

Thanks!

[jburen]

The documentation says this: When you clone a virtual machine from the vCenter Server inventory to the content library, you can choose what type of content library item to create. You can choose to create a library item of either the VM Template type or OVF Template type.

[macadameane]

In vSphere 6.7, I do not see this option.  I have attached the clone context menu.  When selecting a VM, I get the options, "Clone to Template" and "Clone to Virtual Machine".  Neither of these give options for a content library.

When I select a template in vSphere, I get a "Clone to Library" option.  This lets me select a library, but not a type of template.

[jburen]

Very strange! In my home lab, I have vCenter 7.0.1 and in the Actions of a VM I have three options: Clone to Virtual Machine, Clone to Template, and Clone as Template to Library. When I select this last option I can choose between VM Template or OVF.

I also tested this at my client with vCenter 6.7 and there I also have three options in both clients (FLEX and HTML5).

Are you sure you have the appropriate permissions? You should have the vApp - Export privilege to be able to perform "Export OVF Template" and "Clone to Template in Library" actions.

[macadameane]

Thanks for the reply. I don't manage the server, just use it.  I'm not sure what permissions I have, but I do know I can create templates and content libraries, I just cannot do it this way.

[jburen · Accepted solution]

OK. If I were you I would ask the admin what your permissions are so you can make sure you have the correct ones. Permissions to create templates and content libraries are not enough.

[macadameane]

I am able to Export to OVF, so I probably already have that permission.

[dthaele]

Hi,

Did you receive an answer to your basic question about to create a VM from a template using an automation API? I'm trying to understand how to do this also. I believe the VMCreateSpec format has to be followed, but I don't see where the VMtemplate can be specified?

If you have any insights to share it would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Dwayne