The steps outlined below provide a comprehensive guide on how to successfully convert an RDM (Raw Device Mapping) disk to a VMDk (Virtual Machine Disk) for seamless integration into a virtual environment.
- Remove one disk at a time from the ESXI host using the vSphere client or ESXI command line.
- Add the LUNs as Virtual Raw Device Mappings (RDM) in Compatibility mode through the vSphere client by navigating to the ESXI host, right-clicking on the host, selecting “Storage,” then “New Raw LUN,” and choosing the appropriate LUNs.
- Switch the Compatibility node to Virtual and set the DISK mode to Dependent for each Virtual RDM through the vSphere client by right-clicking on the Virtual RDM, selecting “Edit Settings,” navigating to the “Virtual Device Node” tab, and choosing “Virtual” for the Compatibility mode and “Dependent” for the DISK mode.
- Perform a Storage vMotion with Thin provisioning to migrate the Virtual RDMs to a different datastore, ensuring efficient utilization of storage space.
- Verify that the disk is switched back to the appropriate Datastore through the vSphere client by navigating to the ESXI host, right-clicking on the host, selecting “Storage,” then “Rescan All.”
- Offline the corresponding volume on the storage system, such as a SAN or NAS, using the storage system’s management console or command line.
- Bring the volume online on the server that uses the Virtual RDMs through the server’s operating system or disk management tools.