I am writing to share information about the new file-based licensing model introduced in VMware Cloud Foundation 9 (VCF). This new approach marks a significant modernization of the licensing process, aiming to enhance transparency and streamline operations. The licensing can be done in both connected and disconnected modes.
In the connected mode customer can connect to the VCF Business service console to obtain the activation code and once connected the license updates and automated usage reporting will be enabled. this simplifies the management and reporting of the license for the customer.
In both cases the registration needs to be done through the VCF business service console however notice that the disconnected mode has different steps for the licensing.
Licensing steps in Disconnected Mode
Step1 – Download the Registration file from VCF Operations. The registration file is in the JWT (JSON Web Token) and it has only the minimal information required for registration without any sensitive information like passwords.
Step 2 – Upload the registration file to the VCF Business service console and download the license file from the Business service console.
Step 3 – Import the license file into the VCF operations
Once the registration is completed you will see that the VCF Operations is registered in disconnected mode
Assigning the license to the vCenter system
Tracking the Usage of the licenses
You can read more about licensing in VCF9 and Business service console here
