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Can Not Storage Profile-Based Management

Kabir

## Introduction:

Upgrading your vCenter to the latest version can be an exciting prospect, with the promise of enhanced features and improved performance. However, as with any technological transition, unexpected errors may crop up. One such issue that users have encountered is the “Can Not Storage Profile-Based Management” error. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of this error and shed light on the workaround provided by VMware.

 

## The Issue:

The error arises in the aftermath of a vCenter upgrade, and the root cause is traced back to a bug that leads to the deletion of the LocalOS user. This user account is vital, as it is employed by the SPS service for checking storage policies. Without it, the storage profile-based management system encounters difficulties in functioning as intended. Check the /var/log/vmware/vmware-sps/sps.log file for the following error:

2023-09-23T19:11:41.619+02:00 [pool-4-thread-19] ERROR opId= com.vmware.pbm.vapi.authorization.ProfilePermissionAPIValidatorImpl - [checkProfileValidity] Exception occurred during getEffectivePrivilege java.lang.NullPointerException: null

 

## Understanding the LocalOS User:

Before we explore the repercussions of the missing LocalOS user, it’s important to understand its role in the vCenter ecosystem. The LocalOS user is a crucial component utilized by the SPS service to validate and enforce storage policies. These policies are fundamental for maintaining an organized and efficient storage infrastructure.

 

## The Upgrade Bug:

The bug that triggers the deletion of the LocalOS user during the upgrade process is an unfortunate glitch that can disrupt the seamless functionality of the storage profile-based management system. This oversight can lead to a cascade of issues, including an inability to manage storage profiles effectively and potential disruptions in the storage infrastructure.

## VMware’s Response:

Recognizing the severity of the issue, VMware has promptly addressed the bug and provided a workaround for users facing the “Can Not Storage Profile-Based Management” error. The official VMware Knowledge Base article (https://kb.vmware.com/s/article/94870) offers detailed guidance on how to restore the LocalOS user and resolve the associated problems.

 

## The Workaround:

In the Knowledge Base article, VMware outlines a step-by-step process to recreate the LocalOS user and restore functionality to the storage profile-based management system. The guide is comprehensive and user-friendly, ensuring that even users with limited technical expertise can follow the instructions to rectify the error.

In addition to VMware’s official workaround, a crucial part of resolving the “Can Not Storage Profile-Based Management” error involves re-establishing the LocalOS user through the vCenter interface. Follow these steps to ensure a seamless restoration process:

  1. Access the vCenter Interface:
    • Navigate to the vCenter interface and log in with the appropriate credentials.
  2. Navigate to Single Sign-On Configuration:
    • Click on the “Administration” tab in the top menu.
    • Select “Single Sign-On” from the drop-down menu.
    • Proceed to “Configuration” under the Single Sign-On section.
  3. Access Identity Provider Settings:
    • Within the Configuration page, find and click on “Identity Provider.”
  4. Navigate to Identity Sources:
    • Under Identity Provider, locate and select “Identity Sources.”
  5. Add a New Identity Source:
    • Click on the “ADD” button to initiate the process of adding a new identity source.
  6. Configure the Identity Source:
    • In the Identity Source Type dropdown menu, select “Local operating system of SSO server.”
  7. Enter Details for LocalOS:
    • Enter “localos” as the Name for the identity source.
  8. Finalize the Configuration:
    • Click the “ADD” button to finalize the addition of the LocalOS identity source.

By following these additional steps, you are effectively re-establishing the LocalOS user within the Single Sign-On configuration. This ensures that the SPS service can once again utilize this user account for checking storage policies, resolving the “Can Not Storage Profile-Based Management” error.

 

## Conclusion:

In conclusion, while encountering errors during a vCenter upgrade can be unnerving, having a clear and comprehensive solution is key to a swift resolution. VMware’s provided workaround, coupled with this blog, empowers users to regain control over storage profile-based management and continue enjoying the benefits of an upgraded vCenter environment.

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