vCenter Restore Fails with "Current PNID does not match the backup PNID"

Products

• VMware vCenter Server

Issue/Introduction

When restoring vCenter you get an error in Stage 2 that the PNID does not match.

Environment

VMware vCenter Server

Cause

vCenter PNID needs to match exactly, including the case.  This is often caused by a case issue.

• Example PNID that will cause a failure:
  • [email protected] and [email protected]
• Example PNID that will work:
  • [email protected] and [email protected].

Resolution

1. Review PNID:

   • Validate the source vCenter PNID. 
   • Check the PNID of the vCenter you are restoring to ensure it matches the configured PNID with the source vCenter.
   • Initiate the restoration process, ensuring the PNID is accurately configured on restored vCenter.

2. Power Off the Source vCenter:

   • Safely shut down the source vCenter, stopping all dependent services.

3. Confirm Static IP Configuration:

   • Verify that the VM is set to use a static IP address and ensure this address is reserved on the network.

4. Restore VM with Static IP:

   • Proceed with the VM restoration, ensuring it retains the specified static IP address.