Use vCenter permissions to restrict who can "Delete from Disk" versus "Remove from Inventory."
dd if=/dev/sdX1 of=recovered.vmdk bs=512 skip=START_BLOCK count=BLOCKS
sudo vmfs-undelete -f "*.vmdk" /dev/sdX1 /recovery_folder
# Disk DescriptorFile version=1
Before diving into the recovery process, it's essential to understand the VMFS structure. VMFS is a file system that stores virtual machines as a collection of files, including:
This is the most common free method.
Or use hexdump :
Recovery techniques generally fall into two categories: manual metadata reconstruction and specialized software recovery. Manual recovery is highly complex and involves using the ESXi command line—specifically tools like hexdump or objtool —to locate the headers of the lost files. If an administrator knows the exact block offset where a VMDK started, they may be able to recreate the descriptor file to "point" back to the data. However, this is prone to human error and is typically reserved for expert storage engineers.
the VM if the files are hidden but present.
However, "deleted" does not always mean "gone." Depending on how much time has passed and how your storage is configured, there are several pathways to recovery. The Mechanics of VMFS Deletion undelete vmfs file
VMFS uses a hierarchical structure, with a top-level directory containing virtual machine folders. Each virtual machine folder contains the associated files.
Ultimately, while "undeleting" a VMFS file is technically possible through block-level recovery, it is a high-risk endeavor with no guarantee of success. The complexity of these maneuvers underscores the importance of a robust "3-2-1" backup strategy and the use of vSphere features like "Deleted Items" retention in some backup integrations. Prevention remains the only foolproof solution; however, for those facing a sudden loss, immediate isolation of the datastore and the use of forensic recovery tools offer a fighting chance at restoring the virtual environment.