ESXi console shows "Jumpstart plugin restore-configuration-files activation failed"

Products

• VMware vCenter Server

Issue/Introduction

ESXi console shows：

• Jumpstart plugin restore-configuration-files activation failed. 
• No persistent storage available for system logs and data. ESXi is operating with limited system storage space, logs and system data will be lost on reboot.
• File host-xxxx-hb closed with dirty buffers. Possible data loss.

Environment

ESXi 8.0.x

Cause

USB device is used for OSData.

SD/USB devices are prone to wear over time and are thus subject to failures, they are not designed for enterprise class use-cases.

Resolution

Reboot ESXi host.

Broadcom recommends that customers evaluate available options carefully, and plan to use a persistent device for boot.

Additional Information

SD card/USB boot device revised guidance:

https://knowledge.broadcom.com/external/article?legacyId=85685