ESXi free license - need v6.5 but only gives out v7???

[benknown]

I'm just running a homelab using ESXi and note that I can get a free license beyond the 60 day trial. I've an old dell T310 so can only run v6.5. When I go here I can get a license but it defaults to v7 and I can see no option for v6.5. And the license key doesn't work in my install. How do I get the free license for v6.5? Thanks, any help much appreciated.

[Sukanyad · Accepted solution]

Hello,

Please see the following link which explains how to get a free ESXi license key.

Free ESXi 6.5 – How to Download and get License Keys | Virten.net

It is also worth reading the limitations at the top of the page, to ensure the free key will be suitable for you.

[benknown]

Thanks. That worked perfectly. But why do they hide these links?

[mauriziotalpo]

The page https://customerconnect.vmware.com/en/evalcenter?p=free-esxi6 doesn't exist anymore!

[scott28tt]

Correct, because that version isn't supported any more.

There are pages for v7 and v8.

[mauriziotalpo]

Yes, I know.
But I have an old Dell server that does not support versions higher than 6.5.
I replaced the hard disk and now I have no way to get the activation code.

[arczavin]

I have this same problem.. How I can get 6.5.0U3 license for older Dell server?

[scott28tt]

Only possible with full paid-for licenses.

[ezollman]

You can still download vendor specific ISO files for ESXI 6.5.. They have DELL specific ISO files..

https://customerconnect.vmware.com/downloads/info/slug/datacenter_cloud_infrastructure/vmware_vspher...

[zolor]

I'm also looking for a suitable version for PE2950. Do these OEM versions ask for license?