PROBLEM

You get the following error when backing up a VMware Virtual Machine:

CAUSE

This error is encountered when a disk (VMDK) does not have a UUID assigned.

SOLUTION

To enable disk UUID on a virtual machine:

1. Power off the guest VM
2. Select the VM and select Edit Settings
3. Select the Options tab
4. Select General under the Advanced section
5. Select Configuration Parameters...
6. Check the list for the parameter named 'disk.EnableUUID'. If it exists ensure it is set to TRUE
7. If the parameter is not there, select Add Row and set it TRUE
8. Power on the guest VM