This report outlines the current status and management of VMware ESXi license keys following the structural changes implemented by Broadcom. Executive Summary
Since February 2024, VMware has transitioned from perpetual (one-time buy) keys to a 100% subscription-based model. While existing "fixed" perpetual keys continue to function, they no longer receive support or updates once their original Support and Subscription (SnS) contracts expire. 1. Key Status: Perpetual vs. Subscription
Under Broadcom's new rules, how your "fixed" license key behaves depends on its origin:
Existing Perpetual Keys: These are technically "fixed" for life; they will not expire or stop your VMs from running. However, you cannot upgrade them to newer major versions (e.g., from vSphere 7 to 9) or renew support for them.
New Subscription Keys: These are "term-based." If the subscription expires, the ESXi host management features (like vCenter connectivity) will eventually be restricted, and you may face a 20% penalty fee for late renewals.
Free Edition (ESXi 7.x/8.x): Broadcom has officially discontinued the "Free" version of ESXi. Users who already have a free key can continue using it, but new free keys are no longer issued through traditional channels. 2. Updated Licensing Requirements (2025-2026) vmware esxi license key fixed
New keys are now issued based on a per-core metric rather than per-CPU: Free ESXi: Restrictions and Limitations - NAKIVO
This essay explores the concept of a "fixed" VMware ESXi license, focusing on how the recent Broadcom acquisition has reshaped what it means to have a permanent license key and how to resolve common expiration or assignment issues. The Evolution of the "Fixed" VMware ESXi License
In the world of virtualization, the term "fixed license" usually refers to a perpetual license
—a key that allows you to use a specific version of software indefinitely without recurring fees. However, the landscape for VMware ESXi changed dramatically in early 2024 following its acquisition by Broadcom. 1. The End of Perpetual Licensing
For over a decade, users could purchase an ESXi license key and "fix" their environment permanently on that version. As of February 2024, Broadcom discontinued the sale of perpetual licenses This report outlines the current status and management
. The industry has shifted to a 100% subscription-based model. Legacy "Fixed" Keys:
If you already own a perpetual license (e.g., for ESXi 7.x or 8.x), it will still function. These keys do not "expire" in terms of software operation, but your ability to receive support and security updates
ends when your current Support and Subscription (SnS) contract expires. The Subscription Shift:
New keys are now "term-based," typically lasting 1–3 years. These are not "fixed" in the traditional sense; once the term ends, the license expires, and the host may lose functionality. Spiceworks Community 2. Troubleshooting "Fixed" and Expired Keys
VMWare license Issue - Virtualization - Spiceworks Community Purchase from VMware (now Broadcom) or an authorized partner
Sometimes, a valid license key fails to apply due to syntax errors, version mismatches, or database corruption. In this context, “fixed” means troubleshooting and correcting the key assignment so ESXi accepts it.
XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXXImportant: Always follow VMware-supported procedures; avoid editing low-level configuration files unless instructed by support.
Even with a valid key, users often struggle to get a VMware ESXi license key fixed. Here are the top four errors:
Before fix:
License: Evaluation Mode
Expires: 2025-03-15
Features: Limited to 8 vCPUs per VM
After applying fixed license:
License: VMware ESXi 8 Enterprise Plus
Expires: Never
Features: vMotion, HA, DRS, VADP, 256 vCPUs per VM
https://<vCenter_IP>/ui).