Cannot Activate vCenter Server 8 Essentials Using Valid vSphere 8 Essentials Plus License Key

[Jay Thacker]

I have completed a fresh install of vSphere 8 using my vSphere 8 Essentials Plus licensing key.  The single Dell host did activate correctly, but the VCSA 8 appliance will not activate using the same key.  It was my understanding that vSphere Essentials Plus includes the licensing for 6 cores and a single instance of VCSA.  Temporarily, I have applied a 90 trial license to get my VCSA 8 appliance activated but this will expire later this year in December 2024.  My valid vSphere 8 Essentials Plus key is perpetual with no expiration when displayed in my licensing tab of VCSA.

Any suggestions on getting my VCSA license to activate is appreciated.

Ken

[a_p_]

You should have two keys, one for vCenter Server, and another on for the ESXi Hosts.

André

[Jay Thacker]

I do have my original vSphere 6 and 7 keys for vCenter.  However, these don't appear to work with version 8.  In the past, we were able to upgrade/downgrade our license keys using a tool with VMware.  Is this no longer possible or must we open a support case with Broadcom?

[a_p_]

Broadcom allows up- or downgrades only with a current subscription contract.

André