VMware ESXi 9 introduced new license signature checks. Keys from ESXi 7/8 are rejected by ESXi 9.
Since the "Free Edition" (ESXi Free) was discontinued following the Broadcom acquisition, homelab users have limited official options: vmware esxi 9 license key github
Broadcom has transitioned VMware products to a subscription-only model, ending standalone perpetual licenses. vInfrastructure Blog Trial Mode: When first installed, ESXi 9.0 operates in a 90-day evaluation mode VMware ESXi 9 introduced new license signature checks
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