Windows Failover Clustering - VMotion

[DForneiro]

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to know whether it is possible to VMotion and/or Storage VMotion VM's that are in Windows Failvover Cluster without breaking it. I have had few issues when I have. Wanted to know whether there is some alternate way or steps I can take before using VMotion

Thanks

DForneiro

[ScottBentley]

Hi

The following KB article lists the methods supported for vmotion and svmotion http://kb.vmware.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?language=en_US&cmd=displayKC&externalId=100524...

Hope this helps

Scott

[VMmatty]

It's technically possible but not supported by either VMware or MIcrosoft. I've done it in the past on certain occasions and there have been times when it goes smoothly, but more often then not I run into problems with nodes failing over. In general I would stay away from using VMotion on a Failover Cluster.

VMware has several requirements for Microsoft clusters running in vSphere that you should be aware of. Things like making sure they are excluded from DRS/HA if the cluster has those features enabled. Make sure you read through this document to ensure you're meeting all of the requirements.

http://www.vmware.com/pdf/vsphere4/r40/vsp_40_mscs.pdf

[DForneiro]

Thanks guys for your input

I read that document a couple times to get the clustering up and running, but I didnt even think about the DRS/HA component. Last thing I need is the VM to VMotion if an ESX host fails.

I did however find that there may be a way to manually VMotion the virtual machine. Turned off the VM, removed the disks from the VM (removed, not removed and delete), VMotion'ed the VM and reattached the disks and tested failover. Now I am yet to test the application for the failover, but the disks themselves definately failvover. Any one know a problem with this? Once I test the application, Ill post the result

DForneiro