VMware Revives Its Free ESXi Hypervisor in an Utterly Obscure Way
VMware is making a comeback with its beloved free hypervisor, but in a rather unexpected manner. The news broke quietly in the release notes for the latest ESXi hypervisor update from Broadcom, hinting that VMware vSphere Hypervisor version 8 is now available for free.
Key Points
- Broadcom has reintroduced the free version of the VMware vSphere Hypervisor 8, available for download from the Broadcom Support portal.
- This follows the discontinuation of the free ESXi version in February 2024, as VMware shifted to subscription models.
- Users must register with the Broadcom support portal to access the hypervisor download.
- The move likely aims to attract testers and trainers who might eventually transition into paying customers.
- The market for free hypervisor options sees competition from Nutanix and Platform9, which already offer similar free editions.
Why Should I Read This?
If you’re someone who enjoys dabbling in home labs or testing environments, this article is a gem! VMware’s reemergence into the free hypervisor game is sure to spark interest. With alternative options dwindling, it’s time to dive back into virtualisation without the hefty price tag. Trust us, this is one of those bits of news that could make your tech tinkering a lot more fun (and wallet-friendly)!
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