How do I rename folders in ESXi on a datastore?

[msbt]

This might sound a bit noobish, but after the upgrade of my ESXi machine to 6.5.0 Update 2 (Build 8935087) (and afterwards not being able to use the vSphere desktop client anymore), I'm quite puzzled on how to rename a folder on a datastore in the "web client". I always copied virtual machines by creating a folder and copy/pasting the files of a vm template in it and then import it as a new machine.

I don't see a rename option anywhere, neither the files nor the directories seem to be able to be renamed (and also selecting multiple files at once). I can move and copy directories, but not the badly needed renaming. What am I not seeing here?

Best regards,

Matthias

[StephenMoll]

I don't think you get that option using the web client in the ESXi server.

It is available when using vCenter.

[msbt]

Hi Stephen,

thanks for the reply, quick question though: The vCenter is not free, is it?

Best regards

[StephenMoll]

That is correct, it isn't free.

Just stating why you're not seeing that option.

WinSCP does give pretty good control over files and folders as Continuum has pointed out.

You can do some pretty funky stuff using PowerShell with the POSH-SSH module too.

[msbt]

Was just curious if I had missed something, because the old and free desktop client could do everything I needed and I can't use it anymore since the upgrade.

Either way, I've already successfully copied and renamed my machines, thanks again for your help!

[continuum]

Pragmatic approach I use ....
I dont expect that web-client based "filemanager-operations" work as effortless as with a real filemanager like tool.
So I use WinSCP for up/downloads, file-renaming  and most preferably for a the quick and fast edits of small descriptor-files such as vmx and vmdk-files.
Gives you a Texeditor GUI, that works with the files where they are - so no risk to mess up the line-breaks with a Windows-editor.
If ssh is allowed - give it a try.

[msbt]

That might be an option, SSH is disabled by default though, so I have to enable it before any file operation. I would have thought that even the web-based filemanager has the most basic features, but apparently that's not the case...