When you perform VMFS datastore management operations, vCenter Server uses default storage protection filters. The filters help you to avoid storage corruption by retrieving only the storage devices that can be used for a particular operation. Unsuitable devices are not displayed for selection. You can turn off the filters to view all devices.

Note: This task is available only in the vSphere Web Client.

Prerequisites

Before you change the device filters, consult with the VMware support team. You can turn off the filters only if you have other methods to prevent device corruption.

Procedure

  1. Browse to the vCenter Server instance.
  2. Click the Configure tab.
  3. Under Settings, click Advanced Settings, and click Edit.
  4. Specify the filter to turn off.
    In the Name and Value text boxes at the bottom of the page, enter appropriate information.
    Name Value
    config.vpxd.filter.vmfsFilter False
    config.vpxd.filter.rdmFilter False
    config.vpxd.filter.sameHostsAndTransportsFilter False
    config.vpxd.filter.hostRescanFilter False
    Note: If you turn off this filter, your hosts continue to perform a rescan each time you present a new LUN to a host or a cluster.
  5. Click Add, and click OK to save your changes.
    You are not required to restart the vCenter Server system.