: Right-click the .vmdk file and select Download .
Note : The web browser interface often merges the descriptor and -flat file into a single download. Method 2: Exporting as an OVF/OVA Template esxi download vmdk from datastore
Downloading a VMDK (Virtual Machine Disk) from a VMware ESXi datastore is a common task for backups, local testing, or migrations. While the web browser is the most accessible method, technical nuances—like the distinction between descriptor and data files—can lead to incomplete downloads if not handled correctly. : Right-click the
To download a file from an ESXi datastore, you can use the built-in Datastore Browser , the Export function for entire VMs, or command-line tools like SCP . Because VMDKs are often split into a small descriptor file ( .vmdk ) and a large data file ( -flat.vmdk ), ensure you account for both to have a functional disk. Method 1: Using the vSphere Client Datastore Browser While the web browser is the most accessible
The download started immediately at wire speed (1 Gbps). The progress bar ticked steadily: Corp-ERP-flat.vmdk 12% | 24 GB | 3.2 MB/s . This was reliable and resumable.
On Alex’s Windows laptop, they opened Windows Terminal (or PowerShell). The command was simple:
If you are working remotely via SSH and need to clone a disk to a local attached USB drive or another datastore before transferring, this is the safest way to ensure data integrity.