Once a host is connected to a licensed vCenter 9 instance, it is licensed automatically.

: Downloading license keys or "activators" from unverified GitHub repositories can expose your infrastructure to malware or "backdoor" scripts embedded in modified ISOs. Is There a Free Version of ESXi 9?

The search phrase is a cry from a misdirected homelabber. You want the thrill of the build, the joy of the VM, and the pride of a dashboard full of green “running” indicators. But you’re looking for the wrong solution to the wrong problem.

Here is the long-form article.

A 90-day evaluation period is available upon installation, allowing full use of the software without an active subscription during that window. Notable Features in ESXi 9.0

are associated with pentesting or hacking scripts; use caution when running any code from these sources. Summary of ESXi 9.0 Licensing ESXi 8.0 & Earlier License Type Perpetual (One-time) Subscription (Recurring) Activation Method 25-character License Key Signed Activation File Customer Connect Broadcom Support Portal Air-Gap Support Static keys work offline Requires offline request/response files

), which are not compatible with the new vSphere 9 infrastructure. Lack of "Free" Version: