If you removed a virtual machine from vCenter Server but did not remove it from the managed host's datastore, you can return it to the vCenter Server inventory by registering it with the vCenter Server.

Procedure

  1. In the vSphere Web Client inventory, right-click the datastore on which the virtual machine configuration file is stored and select All vCenter Actions > Register VM.
  2. Browse to and select the virtual machine configuration (.vmx) file and click OK.
  3. Use the existing virtual machine name or type a new name, and select a datacenter or folder location for the virtual machine.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Select a host or cluster on which to run the new virtual machine.
    Option Action
    Run the virtual machine on a standalone host. Select the host and click Next.
    Run the virtual machine in a cluster with DRS automatic placement. Select the cluster and click Next.
    Run the virtual machine in a cluster without DRS automatic placement.
    1. Select the cluster and click Next.
    2. Select a host within the cluster and click Next.
  6. Select a resource pool in which to run the virtual machine and click Next.
  7. Review your selections and click Finish.

Results

The virtual machine is added to the vCenter Server inventory.