[Fixed] vCenter Failed to Start File System Check and Network Service

Causes of vCenter failed to start file system check

Encountering the situation failed to start network service vCenter can be concerning, as it signals potential issues within the file system of your vCenter environment. This error message might appear during the startup process and can disrupt the normal operation of your virtualized infrastructure. Several underlying factors can trigger this error:

• Disk Corruption and File System Inconsistencies: A common cause of the "Failed to Start File System Check" error is disk corruption or inconsistencies within the file system. Unresolved disk issues can lead to a failed startup procedure as vCenter attempts to ensure data integrity.
• Unsuccessful Shutdown or System Crash: If vCenter was not shut down properly or if a system crash occurred during operation, it can result in file system errors that trigger the error message upon startup.

Reasons for vCenter failed to start network service

The "vCenter Failed to Start Network Service" error can disrupt the network connectivity and communication capabilities of your vCenter environment, impacting the management and operation of your virtualized infrastructure. Several factors can contribute to this error:

• Network Configuration Issues: Incorrect network settings or misconfigured network adapters within the vCenter environment can lead to the failure of network services during startup.
• Network Connectivity Problems: If the vCenter server is unable to establish network connections with other components, it can hinder the startup process, leading to network service failures.

How to fix vCenter failed to start file system check and network service

Encountering errors related to vCenter's file system check and network service can be disruptive, but with the right approach, you can resolve these issues and restore normal operations to your virtualized environment. Here's a step-by-step guide to address both problems:

vCenter failed to start file system check

1. The error emerges while the system initializes. The appliance displays the message failed to start file system check on root device, and it becomes stuck in Emergency Mode. To resolve this issue, execute the following command:

# fsck /dev/sda3

2. Respond affirmatively to all queries related to repairs, inodes, and issue resolutions.

3. Once all identified problems are rectified, restart the VCSA by choosing Actions >> Power >> Reset from the console menu.

4. Confirm by clicking OK.

Failed to start network service vCenter

1. Another problem that might occur while the system is starting up is the "Network Service Failed to Start" error. Input the root password and initiate the BASH shell.

Command> shell

2. Execute the following command:

# fsck /dev/mapper/log_vg-log

3. Affirmatively respond to all queries to rectify all identified issues.

4. Upon restarting the VCSA, the system boots without any issues.

5. By opening the vCenter Server through your chosen web browser, the appliance is now operational and functioning properly.

Regular vCenter VMs backup against any failed situation

While addressing these errors is crucial, proactive measures are equally important. Regular backups of vCenter VMs play a pivotal role in safeguarding against unexpected failures.

AOMEI Cyber Backup, a reliable VMware backup software, offers a comprehensive approach to protecting virtualized environments. With features like scheduled backups, incremental backups, and disaster recovery planning, AOMEI Cyber Backup ensures that your vCenter environment is resilient against any potential failures and provides the following benefits:

Agentless Backup: Create complete and independent image-level backup for VMware ESXi and Hyper-V VMs without installing any agent.
Multiple VM Backup: Batch backup large numbers of VMs managed by vCenter Server, or multiple VMs on a standalone ESXi host.
Multiple Storage Destinations: Backup to a local drive, or network destinations like NAS.
Automated Execution: Create backup schedules to automate backups daily, weekly, or monthly.
Restore Entire VM: Restore instant available VMs from any selected restore points to an original or new location.

Next, I will show you how to automate the process of backing up VMs managed by vCenter Server or standalone ESXi with AOMEI Cyber Backup. You can click the following button to download the 30-day free trial.

*You can choose to install this VM backup software on either Windows or Linux system.

Simple steps to backup and restore VMs withstand any unexpected situation

❈ How to automate the process of VMware VMs backup

1. Bind Devices: Access to AOMEI Cyber Backup web client, navigate to Source Device >> VMware >> + Add VMware Device >> Add vCenter or Standalone ESXi host as the source device. And then click … >> Bind Device.

2. Create Backup Task: Navigate to Backup Task >> + Create New Task, and then specify Task Name, Backup Type, Device,Target, and Schedule. With its concise interface, any operation can be done via several simple steps. Not only VMware backup and Hyper-V backup, it also supports SQL Server.

• Device: Cover multiple VMs on the host in one backup task.
• Target: Select to back up to a local path, or to a network path. Used paths will be saved in Favorite Storage for handy selection.
• Schedule: Choose to perform full, differential or incremental backup, and automate execution daily, weekly or monthly according to the frequency you specified.
• Cleanup: Configure a retention policy to auto delete old backup files and save storage space.

3. Start Backup: You can select Add the schedule and start backup now, or Add the schedule only.

❈ How to restore your VMware VMs from backup

The tasks formulated for creating backups will be displayed and tracked individually, enabling you to review their advancement, modify the timings, and perform recoveries. Access the Start Restore section and then select Restore to to have the option of altering the restoration destination.

• Restore to original location: Restore a VM to original host without any complicated reinstallation and configuration.
• Restore to new location: Create a new VM in the same or another datastore/host directly from the backup to perform recovery, saves the trouble of re-configuring the new VM.

Conclusion

The "vCenter Failed to Start File System Check" and "vCenter Failed to Start Network Service" errors can be daunting, but with the right approach, they can be overcome. By understanding the causes behind these issues and implementing the recommended fixes, you can restore the functionality of your vCenter environment.

Furthermore, embracing a regular backup strategy using tools like AOMEI Cyber Backup can add an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your virtualized infrastructure remains robust and resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges.