The "unknown error STSService.dll " in RVTools typically occurs during command-line automation or when third-party applications like Remote Desktop Manager (RDM) attempt to interface with it. This specific DLL is an internal dependency used by RVTools to communicate with VMware's Single Sign-On (SSO) and Secure Token Services (STS). Devolutions Forum Root Cause & Common Scenarios Automation Conflicts : The error frequently triggers when executing RVTools.exe
via command line with parameters meant to automate report extraction. Dependency Issues
: It is often caused by a mismatch or internal failure in how RVTools handles system libraries and underlying .NET dependencies. External Integrations
: Users of RDM have reported this error when their version of RDM is incompatible with the installed version of RVTools. Devolutions Forum Recommended Resolutions To resolve this error, follow these troubleshooting steps: Upgrade RVTools
: Most reports of this error originate from older versions. Ensure you are running the latest version (e.g., version or newer). Synchronize Third-Party Versions rvtools unknown error stsservicedll free
: If you use RVTools as an extension within another application (like RDM), ensure
applications are updated to their latest respective versions to resolve library conflicts. Validate Connection Parameters
: In command-line scenarios, use explicit credentials if passthrough authentication fails. For example:
rvtools -u vsphere.local\Administrator -p
Because RVTools is a third-party application maintained by Dell Technologies (formerly Robware), it is not supported
by Broadcom or VMware. If standard updates do not fix the issue, official assistance should be sought through the official RVTools support channels or Dell’s documentation. Broadcom support portal command-line script for RVTools that avoids common automation errors? RVTools STSService.dll error
If none of the above work, the issue may be on the vCenter side. Look for these logs:
RVTools.exe /debug
Create a RVTools.exe.config file in the same folder with: Still Getting the Error
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<configuration>
<system.diagnostics>
<switches>
<add name="RVTools" value="4"/>
</switches>
</system.diagnostics>
</configuration>
Then run RVTools and check the generated log file for details on the DLL load failure.
To fix the problem, we first have to understand the component failing.
STSServiceDLL refers to the Security Token Service (STS) component of the VMware vSphere API. When RVTools connects to your vCenter, it doesn't just "log in" like a human user; it requests a security token from the STS to authenticate the session.
If you see an error referencing STSServiceDLL or "Unknown Error" immediately upon connection, it means the authentication handshake failed. RVTools asked for a token, and the system couldn't provide one, or the environment couldn't load the necessary DLL to process the request.
Try these solutions in order, from quickest to most thorough.