The vSphere Client is the most accessible method for one-off downloads. It automatically handles the relationship between the descriptor file and the flat data file. Prerequisites
Tools like WinSCP or FileZilla can connect via SSH (if enabled on the ESXi host) to browse /vmfs/volumes/ and drag-and-drop files directly to your local system. 2. Critical Configuration Details download vmdk from datastore
The download fails instantly or throws an HTTP 500 error. The vSphere Client is the most accessible method
Large files, automation, or when vCenter is unavailable download vmdk from datastore
If you prefer a command-line interface or are working on a Linux/Unix workstation:
scp root@<ESXi_IP>:"/vmfs/volumes/DatastoreName/MyVM/MyVM-flat.vmdk" ./Desktop/