The failing VMware backup job will contain errors similar to those shown below:
Job Message 2012/02/28 20:32:31 205 Data Plugin VMware_Guest_Name Guest within VM 'virtual_machine_name' uuid '4229a8ab-b1f2-96d5-0339-6730a1603c45' will not be quiesced
Error 2012/02/28 20:33:18 205 Data Plugin VMware_Guest_Name Failed to snapshot VM
--> VMWVIM :02848 116 0 43318 Fault string is 'Cannot create a quiesced snapshot because the create snapshot operation exceeded the time limit for holding off I/O in the frozen virtual machine.'
Error 2012/02/28 20:33:18 205 Data Plugin VMware_Guest_Name Failed to backup VM 'virtual_machine_name' uuid '4229a8ab-b1f2-96d5-0339-6730a1603c45'
For the 'Cannot create a quiesced snapshot because the create snapshot operation exceeded the time limit for holding off I/O in the frozen virtual machine' VMware-specific (non-NetVault) error, please refer to the VMware KB links below for a description of the problem and their suggested resolutions:
One cause listed in the first of the VMware KB articles is the VSS component installed in the VMware Tools on the VM with the failing backup. In this case, VMware suggests the following:
1. Uninstall VMware Tools.
2. Allow the system to reboot.
3. Reinstall VMware Tools. Ensure to click Custom Install.
4. Deselect VSS.
After the installation, you are able to take a snapshot where the quiescing operation is not performed, even if specifically requested.
