Restoring accidentally deleted Content Library in VMware vCenter Server

Products

• VMware vCenter Server

Issue/Introduction

This article addresses the issue of accidental content library deletions in VMware vCenter Server and provides workaround methods for restoration or rebuilding the content library.

Environment

VMware vCenter Server 6.x
VMware vCenter Server 7.x
VMware vCenter Server 8.x
VMware vCenter Server 9.0.x

Cause

Content libraries can be accidentally deleted due to user error or insufficient safeguards against deletion.

Resolution

Note: Once a content library has been deleted, there is no built-in vCenter option to undo the delete operation.

Workaround:

There are two available options to address an accidentally deleted content library:

1. Backup and Restore
   • If available, restore from a recent vCenter Server Appliance (VCSA) backup. Note: VCSA backups only include metadata, not actual content
   • Use a third-party backup solution (e.g.: CommVault, Veeam) if configured to back up content libraries
     
     
2. Rebuilding and Syncing
   • Create a new content library
     • Navigate to Menu > Content Libraries
     • Click on "Create New Library" and follow the wizard
   • Sync with local libraries:
     • Set up new subscriptions to sync content from other local libraries
   • Manual upload:
     • Uploading any missing content (e.g.: ISOs, VM templates) manually

Preventative Measures to avoid future incidents:

• • Restrict permissions for content library deletion to specific users
  • Enable confirmation prompts for deletion actions

Additional Information

• For more details on backing up and restoring vCenter Server, refer to the VMware documentation on VCSA backup and restore procedures.
• Consult your third-party backup solution's documentation for specific instructions on backing up and restoring content libraries.
• Instructions to re-create a Content Library