License Key for ESXi 5 - Where is it?

[MikeGIllinois]

The link below takes me to my license key for ESXi 4.1. The key says it's good for 4.1 or later. Is this the same key I use for ESXi 5.1? I can't find a key for 5.1 on the 5.1 download page. There's no "manual download" button to select and no key in sight.

https://my.vmware.com/group/vmware/evalcenter?p=free-esxi&lp=1

Thank you.

Mike Gallery

[abhilashhb]

Yes Since it says ESXi 4.1 and later it should work for 5.1 too.

To Assign the License key for standalone ESXi follow the steps below.

To license a standalone ESXi 5.x (vSphere Hypervisor):

1. Log in to the ESXi host using vSphere Client.
2. Click the Configuration tab.
3. Click Licensed Features under Software.
4. Click Edit under Licensed Features.
5. Select Assign a new license key to this host.
6. Press Enter and enter the License Key.
7. Click OK.

[Fred_vBrain]

Hi,

for every major version of ESXi you need a specific key. That means that a 4.x key will only work for 4.0 and 4.1. If it is a paid version and you got SnS active you can upgrade the key(s) in your MyVMware account.

If you are using the free Hypervisor you have to create a new key for your ESXi 5.x host.

regards,

Fred

[a_p_]

Although correctly answered by Fred, use the following link to register for the free ESXi 5 Hypervisor unless already done.

https://my.vmware.com/group/vmware/evalcenter?p=free-esxi5&lp=default

André

[swatsson]

There is a field called "License Version" when you decrypt  license keys. This shows where the license keys are applicable. For all 4.x based licenses, the LicenseVersion = "4.0". For all 5.x based ESX, LicenseVersion = "5.0". So you cannot use them interchangeably. You need to purchase a license for your 5.0 host or go with the free hypervisor license (in this case, you won't be able to add it to vCenter). 

Hope this helps..

-Swatsson

[sumo43]

Thank you so much.