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Could Free Linux Licenses from VMware Be a Game-Changer?
I heard something wild the other day. VMware, now under Broadcom, might be giving away free Linux licenses—but only for a short time. Sounds too good to be true, right? Let me break it down for you.
The Rumor Mill
A source—let’s call him “Mumbles”—told me Broadcom’s CEO, Hock Tan, is feeling the heat. Why? Competitors like Proxmox and XCP-ng are eating into VMware’s customer base with cheaper alternatives. To stop the bleeding, there’s talk of a temporary goodwill gesture: free Linux licenses for up to a year. But here’s the kicker—no training or support included. It’s like getting a free car but having to pay for gas and repairs.
Why Now?
VMware’s been losing customers left and right. Broadcom’s licensing policies haven’t helped—remember the 72-core minimum licensing threshold coming in April 2025? That move didn’t exactly win hearts. This freebie idea feels like a PR band-aid on a gaping wound.
Is It Generosity or Strategy?
Mumbles mentioned something about Hock Tan saying, “Customers are already being milked enough.” If true, that’s… blunt. But let’s not forget: Broadcom isn’t known for charity. This could be less about generosity and more about damage control.
A Pattern of Surprises
This isn’t VMware’s first curveball. Remember when they made Workstation and Fusion free for business users? People called it fake news until it turned out to be legit. So, could this Linux license rumor also be real? Maybe. But don’t hold your breath—it might just be a selective perk for certain customers.
Questions That Need Answers
- Do you even need a license for Linux in the first place?
- Will this “short period” offer actually materialize?
- Is this just another marketing ploy to distract from their pricey licensing policies?
My Takeaway
If this rumor pans out, it could shake things up—at least temporarily. But don’t get too excited; Broadcom isn’t likely to leave money on the table for long. Keep an eye out for an official announcement, but don’t bank on this being a long-term deal.