vCenter – Exception in invoking authentication handler User password expired

When logging into the VCSA appliance management interface, you will receive the Exception in invoking authentication handler User password expired error message if your vCenter / VCSA root password has expired.

To restore access, connect to the VCSA’s console, or via SSH:

Once connected, type shell to enter the bash shell. Once there, type passwd to set a new password for the vCenter appliance root account:

# passwd
New password:
Retype new password:
passwd: 
password updated successfully

Exit the console session once done. You should now be able to log into the VMware vCenter appliance management interface successfully: