Restore Data - VMware ESX 3.x Virtual Machines - Full System Restore

Topics | How To | Full System Restore | Related Topics

A full system restore of a VMware ESX Virtual Machine may involve two distinct restores, as follows:

Try to avoid the unconditional overwrite of the root directory on a live file system. This is a mechanism that allows an unconditional overwrite of open files in the root directory (/) on a live file system. Performing such a restore can result in an inconsistent system that may also fail to boot. Use this option AT YOUR OWN RISK.
  1. Restore the latest Full Image backup of the Virtual Machine to the ESX Server using the vcbRestore utility. For procedures, see Restore a VMware ESX Server 3.x Virtual Machine Disk Image. This restore can also be performed to a different location on the network, and copied to the VMware ESX Server after the restore is complete.
  2. Restore the latest File backup to the Virtual Machine, if a File backup was performed after the date of the Full Image that was restored. For instructions, see one of the following, based on which iDataAgent was used for the File backup:

This method of full system restore serves as only one example of how the restore can be completed; there may be other methods that are suitable for your particular environment. For more information about restore strategies, refer to the VMware Virtual Machine Backup Guide.