VMware licences: choose the right foundation for your IT strategy
The VMware licensing structure has changed significantly in 2025. Since the acquisition by Broadcom, perpetual licenses (= software license for indefinite usage rights) have been phased out, and all models now operate on a subscription basis. This has a major impact on your choices, costs, and long-term viability.
The right software licenses are crucial for the successful management of your data center and workspace environment.
A solid VMware license is essential for building a reliable, scalable, and secure IT environment. Whether it’s data center management, cloud migration, or network virtualization — the right license helps prevent surprises and unnecessary costs.
What has changed in VMware licenses since Broadcom?
The new licensing structure requires a reassessment of your license strategy. Key changes include:
- Perpetual licenses have been discontinued — switching to subscriptions is mandatory
- New bundles: VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) and vSphere Foundation (VVF)
- Licenses are now per core (minimum of 16 cores per CPU)
- Aria products have been renamed to VCF Operations / Automation and are only available through bundles
The right choice depends on your infrastructure, workload type, and future plans.
Which VMware bundle fits your organization?
VMware offers several subscription models, each with its own value. Due to this complexity, gaining insight is crucial. Some important questions to ask yourself when choosing the right VMware licenses are:
- What does a VMware license cost in your specific situation?
- Which bundle model (VCF, VVF, MSP) provides the most value?
- How many CPU cores do you need to license?
A transparent overview helps you avoid surprises and unnecessary expenses.
Request our License Readiness Assessment for concrete advice in just one session.
| Bundle |
Contents |
For whom? |
| VCF |
Complete stack: vSphere, NSX, vSAN and VCF Operations / Automation |
Large or hybrid environments |
| VVF |
vSphere + vCenter + VCF Operations / Logs |
Medium-sized environments and VDI |
| Cloud MSP |
Scalable montly, ideal for service providers |
MSPs and cloud providers |
How are VMware licenses calculated today?
Not every organization faces the same IT challenges or has the same infrastructure. That’s why it’s important to consider:
- Current and future workloads
- Cloud and on-premises usage
- Security and networking requirements
- Compliance demands and budget flexibility
Depending on these factors, VMware licenses are available for solutions like vSphere, NSX, vSAN, or full Cloud Foundation stacks.
Getting More Value from Your VMware License
Smart choices lead to optimal performance and a lower total cost of ownership. By selecting the right bundle and license model, you can unlock opportunities for:
- Cost optimization
- Flexibility for growth or consolidation
- Simplified lifecycle management
- Better alignment with strategic IT goals
What sets us apart:
- Our deep expertise in VMware licensing goes hand in hand with our ability to advise on a wide range of other vendors. Whether it’s Nvidia for AI/ML workloads, infrastructure automation, or various hyperscalers for cloud environments, we have the knowledge to guide you.
- One of our most valuable services is the License Readiness Assessment. In this process, we not only evaluate your current license usage but also design optimal scenarios that minimize your IT expenses and ensure compliance. This service provides insight not only into your licensing portfolio but also into strategies for effectively managing and optimizing your software licenses.
- We go beyond just VMware licensing advice. We offer a comprehensive approach to software license management, working closely with our clients to maximize value and minimize risk.
Frequently Asked Questions about VMware Licenses
Yes, but without entitlement to support, updates, or upgrades.
These are now part of VCF Operations / Automation and are only available through bundles.
Absolutely. Consider hybrid cloud solutions with hyperscalers or our own ITQ FlexCloud.
Need advice? A conversation is easily arranged
Are you unsure about the right VMware license, the associated pricing models, or whether a VMware license is the right choice for your organization? A personal conversation with one of our specialists will help you move forward.
Get in touch and receive clear and well-founded license advice—tailored to your specific situation.
