VMware, a leading virtualization software provider, has significantly changed its licensing model for its popular desktop hypervisor products, VMware Fusion and VMware Workstation.
Both products are now free for all users, including commercial, educational, and personal users, effective November 11, 2024.
This significant shift marks the end of the paid subscription model for these products. The previously available paid versions, Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro are no longer available for purchase.
The free versions will include all the previously available features in the paid versions, ensuring users can continue to utilize these powerful tools without compromise.
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VMware has assured current commercial subscribers that existing contracts will remain valid until expiration. These customers will continue to receive full service and enterprise-grade support as per their agreements.
While the products are now free, there are some changes to the support model:
- Users with active support agreements will continue to have access to support through standard channels.
- Once current contracts conclude, support ticketing for troubleshooting will no longer be available.
- All users will have access to online resources, including documentation, user guides, and community forums.
VMware has introduced a robust free-tier support model, which includes:
- Community access for sharing insights and solutions
- Extensive product documentation
- A rich library of knowledge-base articles
Looking ahead, VMware has committed to continued investment in these products, promising new features, usability improvements, and timely updates.
The company sees this transition as an opportunity for increased collaboration and feedback from a broader user base. This move follows VMware’s decision in May 2024 to make Workstation Pro and Fusion Pro free for personal use.
The latest announcement extends this free access to all users, including commercial entities, marking a significant shift in VMware’s approach to its desktop hypervisor products.
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