Broadcom’s VMware has secured support from Microsoft for its license portability initiative, allowing VMware Cloud Foundation Suite subscribers to utilize their entitlements for Microsoft’s Azure VMware Solution. This move, announced by Broadcom CEO Hock Tan, enables users to apply their licensed capacity to resources of their choice, promoting flexibility and efficiency in cloud utilization.
License portability is seen as a key benefit of the “business simplification” strategy that Broadcom is implementing at VMware. Subscribers to VCF, a suite that facilitates the creation of software-defined data centers across on-premises and cloud environments, can now ensure that the cloud capacity they have paid for is optimally utilized. This agreement allows VMware users to procure their VCF licenses from either VMware or Microsoft when signing up for the Azure VMware solution.
Microsoft’s inclusion in the VCF license portability initiative adds to the momentum, with Google Cloud already onboard. AWS, VMware‘s original partner in developing a jointly developed service, was affected by Broadcom’s decision to limit reselling to themselves and their channel partners. This decision led to a situation where AWS was promoting itself as an alternative to its own service.
The challenge of locating license keys following the integration of VMware‘s support site with Broadcom’s site has been a point of contention for some customers. Complaints have surfaced regarding difficulties in accessing licenses and entitlements, despite following migration instructions from Broadcom. In response to these issues, a VMware employee has been actively working to address the problem and assist those affected.
The migration to Broadcom’s support portal also led to controversy as it initially restricted public access to VMware‘s security advisories. Following backlash, Broadcom reversed their decision and made vulnerability reports accessible to the public once again. Overall, the agreement between Broadcom’s VMware and Microsoft for license portability demonstrates a commitment to empowering users to effectively utilize their cloud resources and benefit from the flexibility offered by the VCF suite.
Article Source
https://www.theregister.com/AMP/2024/06/03/vmware_broadcom_licence_portability_microsoft/
