Best way to migrate VMDK files from one storage array to another without vCenter running vSphere 4.1

[snowmizer]

I need to migrate some VMs on our test network to our new storage array from our old array. I don't have vCenter available on the test network. What is the best way to migrate the VMDKs to the new storage array so that all configuration files get modified accordingly (if possible)?

I am running vSphere ESXi 4.1 U2.

Thanks.

[vmroyale]

Hello.

Without vCenter, using VMware Converter will be the easiest way.

Good Luck!

[herseyc]

If you are trying to move the whole VM it is fairly simple.

Power down the VM and remove the VM from inventory (DO NOT DELETE FROM DISK).

Copy the directory the VM files are located in to the new storage array. You can do this in Browse Datastore by downloading the folder from the source and then uploading the folder to the new array/datastore.

Use Browse Datastore to access the new location and add the VM back into inventory (right click on the VMs .vmx file and click add to inventory).

Power on the VM and you should get a dialog asking if you moved or copied the VM.  I think copied is the default, just leave it selected and click OK.

Edit the settings of the VM and verify that the disk have been updated to the new location.

Once everything is verified delete the directory off the old location.

Hope this helps.

Hersey

[MauroBonder]

I agree with vmroyale is the easiest and safest way to perform this migration.

Use converter Standalone - www.vmware.com/go/download-converter

[snowmizer]

Thanks for the suggestions. I ended up getting these moved by using Veeam FastSCP to copy the files and re-adding the VMs back to inventory after they were moved since I didn't have anything running Converter and didn't have time to build a machine.