ESXi USB Boot Failure Recovery: A Step-by-Step Guide

As a system administrator, dealing with ESXi boot failure can be frustrating and time-consuming. In this article, we will discuss a common issue – ESXi USB boot failure recovery – and provide a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

The first step in resolving the issue is to identify the root cause of the problem. You can find hints about the issue in various logs such as vmkernel.log, esxtop, sexigraf, or vSAN Observer. If you are unable to resolve the issue through troubleshooting, it is recommended to log a support case for further assistance.

Before we dive into the solution, let's take a step back and understand that ESXi boot failure can occur due to various reasons such as corruption in the boot bank of the ESXi host or outdated System ROM and iLO FW. In this article, we will focus on resolving the issue through NVRAM clear using the System Maintenance Switch on board.

Step 1: Power Down Server and Unplug Power Cords

To begin with, power down the server and unplug both power cords. Wait for 2-3 minutes to ensure that all power is drained from the system.

Step 2: Remove SD Card and Wait

Remove the SD card from the server and wait for another 10-15 minutes to allow any residual power to drain.

Step 3: Re-insert SD Card and Power Up Server

Re-insert the SD card and reconnect the power cords. Power up the host and observe if the issue is resolved.

If the issue persists, it may be due to corruption in the boot bank of the ESXi host. In this case, you can try upgrading the System ROM and iLO FW to the latest version using the iLO > Diagnostics tab.

Step 4: Isolate Possible Recovery

Before attempting any further recovery steps, ensure that all possible causes of the issue have been eliminated. This includes verifying that the SD card is properly seated and connected, and that there are no errors or alerts in the iLO > Diagnostics tab.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be due to a more serious corruption in the boot bank of the ESXi host. In this case, you may need to perform an NVRAM clear using the System Maintenance Switch on board.

In conclusion, resolving ESXi USB boot failure recovery requires a systematic approach and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Remember to log a support case for further assistance if needed, and always ensure that your System ROM and iLO FW are up-to-date.

Esxi usb boot failure recovery