Unable to View or Import OVF Files in vCenter.

Products

• VMware vSphere ESX 8.x

Issue/Introduction

• Users are encountering difficulties when attempting to deploy OVF (Open Virtualization Format) or OVA (Open Virtual Appliance) templates into VMware vCenter Server.
• The primary symptom for OVF/OVA import is that after selecting the .ovf, .vmdk, or .ova files within the vSphere Clients' "Deploy OVF Template" wizard, the UI fails to display the selected files, or the "Next" button remains grayed out and unresponsive. 

Environment

VMware vCenter Server

Cause

The primary cause for the inability to view or proceed with selected OVF/OVA files during the import process has been identified as a browser-related issue. This can stem from:

• Browser Cache Corruption: Stale or corrupted data in the browser's cache can interfere with the vSphere Client's JavaScript rendering and file handling mechanisms.
• Persistent Session Data or Cookies: Outdated or malformed cookies/session data might confuse the vSphere Client's interaction with the vCenter server.
• Interference from Browser Extensions/Add-ons: Certain browser extensions, especially those related to security, ad-blocking, or network proxies, can inadvertently block or modify the vSphere Client's expected behavior, including file input forms.
• Browser Security Settings: Overly strict browser security settings (e.g., script blocking, cross-site scripting prevention) might prevent the proper loading or execution of the vSphere Client components responsible for file selection.

 

Resolution

1) Try using your web browser's Incognito/Private Browsing mode:

• This is the most effective initial troubleshooting step as it typically runs the browser with a clean slate, free from cached data, cookies, and most extensions.
• Google Chrome: Open a new Incognito window (Ctrl+Shift+N or Cmd+Shift+N on Mac).
• Mozilla Firefox: Open a new Private Window (Ctrl+Shift+P or Cmd+Shift+P on Mac).
• Microsoft Edge: Open a new InPrivate window (Ctrl+Shift+N).
• Access your vCenter Server's vSphere Client URL in this Incognito/Private window and attempt the OVF/OVA import again.

2) Disable browser extensions:

• If clearing cache/cookies doesn't help in your regular browser, try temporarily disabling all browser extensions, especially ad-blockers, VPN extensions, or security add-ons, and then re-attempt the import.

 

Note: If the issue persists even after clearing the browser cache and using incognito mode, please open a support ticket with the Broadcom Support team. For guidance on the process, refer to the following article: https://knowledge.broadcom.com/external/article/142884/