ESX host disconnects continuously from vSphere Client connected to vCenter Server

Products

• VMware vCenter Server
• VMware vSphere ESXi

Issue/Introduction

Symptoms:

• ESX/ESXi host disconnects from vCenter Server continuously.
• ESX/ESXi hosts show as Not Responding in vSphere Client connected to vCenter Server shortly after reconnecting.

Environment

VMware ESXi 4.1.x Installable
VMware ESXi 4.0.x Installable
VMware vCenter Server 4.1.x
VMware ESX 4.1.x
VMware ESXi 4.1.x Embedded
VMware ESX 4.0.x
VMware ESXi 4.0.x Embedded

Cause

Resolution

This issue occurs if the profile added in the Windows firewall rule for host heartbeat is public and vCenter Server is a part of a domain.

To resolve the issue:

Note: This resolution is provided for a vCenter Server installed on a Windows 2008 R2 operating system.

1. On vCenter Server, navigate to Control Panel > Windows firewall > Exceptions.
   
2. Edit the exception (firewall rule) for VMware vCenter Server-Host Heartbeat and click Properties. VMware vCenter Server- Host Heartbeat Properties window opens.
   
3. Click Advanced.
   
4. In the Profiles section, specify the correct profile as domain.
   
5. Save the rule and re-add the ESX host back to vCenter Server.

Additional Information

Troubleshooting an ESXi/ESX host in non responding state