VMkernel creation fails with error "A specified parameter was not correct"

Products

• VMware vSphere ESXi
• VMware vCenter Server

Issue/Introduction

When attempting to add a VMkernel adapter to an ESXi host via vCenter Server, the task fails.

• Symptoms: UI error "Operation failed! A specified parameter was not correct."

• vpxd: "Portgroup xxxx already exists"

Environment

VMware vSphere ESXi

VMware vCenter Server 

Cause

A port group with the same name as the one intended for the new VMkernel interface already exists on the target virtual switch.

Resolution

 

• Log in to the vSphere Client.

  • Navigate to the ESXi Host > Configure > Networking > Virtual switches.
  • Identify if a port group with the conflicting name exists on the Standard Switch (vSS) .
  • Perform one of the following:
  • Delete the existing port group: If the port group is stale and not associated with any existing VMkernel or VM, delete it and retry the wizard.
  • Rename the new VMkernel: Re-run the "Add Networking" wizard and provide a unique name for the port group/VMkernel interface.

 

• OR Log in to the ESXi Host Client

• • Log in to the ESXi Host Client directly (https://<ESXI_IP_OR_FQDN>/ui).
  • Navigate to Networking > VMkernel adapters.
  • Click Add VMkernel adapter.
  • In the Select port group section, select the existing port group name from the drop-down menu.
  • Configure the IPv4/IPv6 settings as required.
  • Click Create.