VMware Revives Its Free ESXi Hypervisor
VMware has reintroduced a free version of its hypervisor, ESXi, which had previously been discontinued in February 2024 as part of a shift towards subscription-based licensing. The announcement was disclosed in the release notes for the latest version of ESXi. This move aims to cater to home lab operators and virtual administrators seeking a low-cost option for their virtualization needs.
Key Points
- The free ESXi hypervisor is now available again through the Broadcom Support portal.
- This version is aimed at users who previously enjoyed the product for personal and home lab use.
- The initial discontinuation in 2024 was attributed to VMware’s transition to subscription-based licensing.
- Community response has been sceptical, with many questioning VMware’s motives and future support for the free version.
- Competitors like Proxmox are gaining traction as alternatives for users moving away from VMware.
Why should I read this?
This article is significant for IT professionals, home lab enthusiasts, and businesses considering their virtualisation options. With VMware’s reintroduction of the ESXi hypervisor, it raises questions about loyalty and trust in the brand. Additionally, it highlights ongoing trends in the hypervisor landscape, notably the shift towards more cost-effective solutions amidst rising subscription fees in the industry.
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