Resolving "Deactivation failed" Error During HCX Undeployment in VMware Cloud on AWS
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Resolving "Deactivation failed" Error During HCX Undeployment in VMware Cloud on AWS
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Article ID: 381618
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Updated On: 07-08-2025
Products
VMware Cloud on AWSVMware HCX
Issue/Introduction
When undeploying VMware HCX from VMware Cloud on AWS, users may encounter a "Deactivation failed" error during the undeployment process. This error specifically occurs during the deactivation stage of the undeployment workflow when service mesh & other HCX connections are still present in the environment. The error prevents the completion of the HCX undeployment process and can leave the deployment in a partially removed state.
Below is a screenshot of this error
Environment
VMware Cloud on AWS
VMware HCX
vCenter Server
Cause
The "Deactivation failed" error occurs due to one or more of the following conditions:
Active service mesh connections are present during the undeployment attempt
The undeployment process was initiated without following the proper sequence of decommissioning steps
A stuck task from a failed undeployment attempt prevents further operations
Resolution
Follow these steps to resolve the HCX deactivation failure
Verify Prerequisites
Confirm all migrations and replications, including DR operations, are finalized
Verify no migration or protection operations are running
Ensure all network extensions are removed from source-site data centers
Check that all unextended networks are removed from the destination site
Clear Network Components
Navigate to Network & Security > Network > Segments in VMware Cloud on AWS
Remove any remaining unextended networks
For DX deployments, clear all direct connect private interfaces
Remove Service Mesh
Navigate to HCX Manager Service UI
Go to Interconnect > Service Mesh
Remove all existing service mesh configurations
Verify service mesh instances no longer appear in the HCX Manager Service UI
Disconnect Site Pairings
From the HCX dashboard, navigate to Site Pairing
Disconnect all site pairs
Clear Failed Tasks
Identify any stuck undeployment tasks
Work with Broadcom Support if necessary to kill any persistent failed tasks
Remove Firewall Rules
Access the VMware Cloud on AWS management interface
Access the VMware Cloud on AWS management interface
Select the SDDC with the failed HCX deployment
Click Undeploy HCX
Note: Following the proper undeployment sequence as documented in the VMware HCX Guide below is crucial for preventing this issue. Always ensure all dependencies are removed in the correct order before attempting to undeploy HCX.