"The provider is already registered" error when registering a Pure storage provider

Products

• VMware vCenter Server
• VMware vCenter Server 8.0

Issue/Introduction

While trying to register a VASA storage provider from Pure Storage in vSphere Client, the following error is observed: "The provider is already registered."

 

In addition one or more of the following conditions apply:

- No more access to datastore
- Virtual Volumes (vVols) are down
- Pure Storage system was shut down, physically moved to a different site, and then brought back online. No additional changes were made on the storage side beyond the relocation.

 

Environment

vCenter Server with Pure storage VASA provider

Cause

When one Pure VASA storage provider is changed or removed, the other will take the primary UUID.

Later on, when the removed/changed storage provider is attempted for re-registering, its UUID shows as already registered.

Resolution

1.) Unregister/Remove both Storage Providers.

2.) Register them back in the proper order.

Note: The Proper order would be to re-register the removed Storage Provider first.

3.) Re-evaluate whether the issue persists

 

4.) If the issue persists, repeat Step 1.) 

5.) Reboot both Pure Storage Controllers (if needed engage Pure Storage for assistance)

6.) Repeat Steps 2-3