How to Import OVA File to Xen/XCP-NG

Importing OVF (Open Virtualization Format) packages into XenServer allows you to seamlessly deploy virtual machines (VMs) from various sources, including VMware, Hyper-V, and even other XenServer environments. This process simplifies the migration and deployment of virtualized workloads. This article provides a step-by-step guide to importing OVF packages into XenServer, addressing common challenges and offering troubleshooting tips.

Getting Started with the Import Wizard

1. Launch the Import Wizard: Open the File menu in XenCenter and select "Import." This initiates the wizard, guiding you through the import process.

2. Locate the OVF Package: Browse to the location of your OVF package, which will have a *.ovf, *.ova, or *.ova.gz file extension. Select the package and click "Next" to continue.

   • Compressed OVA Files: If you've selected a compressed OVA file ( *.ova.gz ), XenCenter automatically decompresses it to an OVA file upon clicking "Next." The original *.ova.gz file is then deleted.

   • Importing from a URL: You can also specify a URL location (HTTP, HTTPS, file, FTP) in the Filename box. Clicking "Next" will open a Download Package dialog, allowing you to choose a folder on your XenCenter host where the package will be copied.

Reviewing and Accepting EULAs

1. EULA Acceptance: The wizard will prompt you to review and accept any End User License Agreements (EULAs) included with the OVF package. Accept the EULAs and click "Next" to continue.

   • No EULAs: If the package doesn't contain EULAs, the wizard will skip this step and proceed to the next page.

Specifying VM Location and Storage

1. VM Placement: On the Location page, select the pool or standalone server where you want to place the imported VMs. Choose the desired location from the "Import VMs to" list and click "Next."

2. Storage Configuration: The Storage page allows you to configure storage for the imported VMs. You have two options:

   • Single Storage Repository (SR): Select "Place all imported VMs on this target SR" and choose an SR from the list. This places all imported disk images on the same SR.

   • Multiple SRs: Choose "Place imported VMs on the specified SR targets." For each virtual disk, select the target SR from the list in the "SR" column. This allows you to distribute disk images across different SRs.

Network Mapping and Security Settings

1. Network Configuration: On the Networking page, map the virtual network interfaces in the imported VMs to target networks in the destination pool/standalone server. The Network and MAC address listed for each incoming VM are stored as part of the original VM's definition in the export file. Select a network from the "Target network" column for each virtual network interface.

2. Security Configuration: The Security page allows you to specify security settings if the OVF/OVA package includes features like certificates or a manifest. Select "Next" to proceed.

   • Digital Signature Verification: A "Verify digital signature" checkbox appears if the package is signed. Select this checkbox to verify the signature. Click "View Certificate" to view the certificate used for signing. If the certificate is untrusted, it's likely that either the Root Certificate or the Issuing Certificate Authority is not trusted on your local computer.

   • Manifest Verification: A "Verify manifest content" checkbox appears if the package includes a manifest. Selecting this checkbox verifies the list of files in the package.

   • Automatic Manifest Verification: Packages with digital signatures have their associated manifest automatically verified, so the "Verify manifest content" checkbox won't appear.

Enabling Operating System Fixup (Optional)

1. OS Fixup Settings: If the imported VMs were built on a hypervisor different from XenServer, select "Use Operating System Fixup." This option assists in converting the VM's operating system to function properly in the XenServer environment.

   • Choosing an ISO SR: Select an ISO SR where the Fixup ISO can be copied. XenServer will use this ISO for the fixup process.

   • Creating a New ISO Library: If your desired ISO library isn't listed, select "New ISO Library" to create a new ISO SR. Refer to the "ISO Storage" documentation for more details.

Reviewing Settings and Initiating the Import Process

1. Finish Page: The Finish page provides a final summary of your import settings. Review the details carefully and click "Finish" to start the import process and close the wizard.

Monitoring the Import Process

1. Import Progress: The import progress is displayed on the status bar at the bottom of the XenCenter window and in the Events view under "Notifications."

   • Import Duration: The import time depends on the size of the imported virtual disks, available network bandwidth, and the disk interface speed of the XenCenter host.

Post-Import Steps and Troubleshooting

1. Verifying Imported VMs: Once the import completes, the newly imported VMs will appear in the Resources pane, and any new vApps will be listed in the Managing vApps dialog.

2. Windows Operating Systems: If you've imported an OVF package containing Windows operating systems, you need to set specific platform parameters after importing:

   • xe vm-param-set uuid=<VM UUID> platform:device_id=0002

   • xe vm-param-set uuid=<VM UUID> platform:viridian=true

Troubleshooting Errors when Starting Imported VMs

If you encounter issues booting imported VMs, consider these steps:

1. Retry Import Without OS Fixup: Try importing the package again without using the Operating System Fixup feature. In the OS Fixup Settings page of the Import wizard, uncheck the "Use Operating System Fixup" checkbox. Refer to the "About VM Import and Export" documentation for more information.

2. Check Compatibility: Ensure that the imported VM is compatible with the XenServer version you're using. Older VM versions might not be compatible with newer XenServer releases.

3. Verify Hardware Compatibility: Verify that the imported VM's hardware configuration is supported by XenServer. Certain hardware components might require specific drivers or settings.

4. Review Network Configuration: Double-check your network configuration, ensuring that the imported VM is correctly mapped to the target network.

Conclusion

Importing OVF packages into XenServer is a streamlined process that allows you to easily migrate or deploy virtualized workloads. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully import your virtual machines and begin utilizing them within your XenServer environment. Remember to review the XenServer documentation for specific details and troubleshooting tips tailored to your needs.