vMotion Failure: "The Object or item referred to could not be found"

Products

• VMware vSphere ESXi

Issue/Introduction

When attempting a vMotion operation, the migration fails with the error message: "The Object or item referred to could not be found." while the VM is still running properly without any issues. 

 

Environment

VMware vSphere ESXi

Cause

The error is triggered when a VM is moved from its original folder or inventory location without proper reconciliation in the vCenter management layer. When the vCenter Server attempts to initiate a vMotion, it references an outdated inventory path, resulting in the "Object or item referred to could not be found" failure.

Resolution

To resolve this issue, the VM must be properly re-registered in its intended inventory location:

1. Verify VM Location: Compare the current inventory path of the VM in the vSphere Client against its original or expected location.
2. Power Off VM: To ensure data consistency and allow for re-registration, the affected VM must be powered off.
   • Right-click the VM > Power > Shut Down Guest OS or Power Off.
3. Remove from Inventory: Once the VM is powered off, right-click the VM and select Remove from Inventory.
   • Note: Ensure you do not select "Delete from disk."
4. Re-register VM: Navigate to the datastore where the VM files are stored, locate the .vmx file, right-click it, and select Register VM. Complete the wizard to add the VM back to the inventory in its correct location.
5. Validate: Power on the VM and initiate the vMotion operation to confirm the issue is resolved.