casual root password rescue

requirements

this requires access to the esxi node from vcenter. if even the vcenter lost access, then you need to proceed the hard way

host profiles

• extract host profile
• edit host profile > unselect all and search for root (defined fixed root password)
• attach host to profile
• edit host customizations
• remmediate (without reboot! don’t forget to uncheck the box)

resources

https://knowledge.broadcom.com/external/article?articleNumber=323617

https://knowledge.broadcom.com/external/article/343943/reset-root-password-of-an-esxi-host-whic.html ==> using host profile (enterprise plus license)

https://4sysops.com/archives/three-ways-to-reset-a-vmware-esxi-root-password/ ==> host profiles vs AD vs rescue

https://shape.host/resources/resetting-the-root-password-in-vmware-esxi-host-a-step-by-step-guide ==> Shift-R

https://www.starwindsoftware.com/blog/forgot-esxi-root-password-no-problems-4-ways-reset/ ==> host profiles nice walk-through