| Type | Duration | vCenter Managed? | Backup API | |------|----------|----------------|------------| | Evaluation (default) | 60 days | Yes (if trial) | Yes | | Free (unlicensed) | Unlimited | No | No | | Fixed (paid, e.g., ROBO/Standard/Enterprise Plus) | Unlimited | Yes (depending on edition) | Yes |
: Broadcom restored the free version of ESXi (starting with 8.0 Update 3e). You can download the ISO from the Broadcom portal's Free Downloads section , which may include an embedded license key or provide one upon registration. Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the web GUI is unresponsive due to an expired license or network issues, you can fix and apply your license key using the Command Line Interface (CLI) via SSH. vmware esxi license key fixed
After 60 days, just assign the free license key (obtained from Broadcom). The host will not expire.
$hosts = Get-VMHost
Ideal for small labs or evaluation, this version is free but comes with significant limitations, such as restricted vCPU support, no vCenter management, and limited API support.
In April 2025, Broadcom quietly reversed its decision to discontinue the free version of , re-releasing it as ESXi 8.0 Update 3e | Type | Duration | vCenter Managed
If you currently hold an older, perpetual ESXi license key, it remains legally valid for that specific software version. However, you can no longer buy add-on perpetual keys, and active Support and Subscription (SnS) contracts for those keys cannot be renewed. To upgrade to newer versions (like future updates of vSphere 8 or vSphere 9), you must transition to the subscription model. 3. How to Apply and Fix License Key Errors in ESXi
If you are looking for "fixed" VMware ESXi license keys today, it is crucial to understand that Broadcom has officially discontinued the sale of perpetual licenses. The Subscription Transition Troubleshooting Common Issues If the web GUI is
If you are looking for information on specific vSphere 8 licensing changes under Broadcom, or how to migrate your licenses, let me know, and I can provide further details. Managing licenses on ESXi hosts using the vSphere Client
The hypervisor continues to run your virtual machines (VMs) even if your support contract expires.