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Restarting hostd (mgmt-vmware) on ESX Server hosts restarts hosted virtual machines where virtual machine Startup/Shutdown is enabled
Details
This is an issue with virtual machines that are set to automatically start or stop and that are hosted on ESX Server 3.x. Manually shutting down, starting up, or restarting hostd through the service console causes hosted virtual machines that are set to automatically change power states to stop, start, or restart, respectively.
Notes:
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This applies to ESX Server 3.0.1 if the patch ESX-7557441 is not installed.
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The following patch for ESX Server 3.5.x fixes problems with virtual machines set to auto-start: VMware ESX 3.5, Patch ESX350-2--8020410-BG: Unexpected reboot of virtual machines configured to automatically start or stop (1003457)
Solution
Note: Before you begin please refer to KB1003490 for important information on restarting the mgmt-vmware service.
Disable Virtual Machine Startup/Shutdown for the ESX Server host through VirtualCenter or a VMware Infrastructure Client (VI Client) that is directly connected to the host.
To disable Virtual Machine Startup/Shutdown:
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Log in to VirtualCenter.
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Select the ESX Server host where you want restart hostd.
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Select the Configuration tab.
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Select Virtual Machine Startup/Shutdown.
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Select Properties.
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Uncheck Allow Virtual machines to start and stop automatically with the system.
If the host is not reachable through VirtualCenter or the VI Client:
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Log in to the ESX Server service console as root .
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At the command line run vimsh .
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At the [/] prompt, type:
hostsvc/autostartmanager/enable_autostart 0
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Type exit . You can now safely restart mgmt-vmware (hostd).
Feedback
Actions
- KB Article: 1003312
- Updated: Aug 14, 2009
- Products:
VMware ESX - Product Versions:
VMware ESX 3.0.x
VMware ESX 3.5.x

