August 14, 2026 – since the Broadcom acquisition, VMware has been selling only subscriptions. New perpetual licenses are no longer available. This means that the existing inventory of perpetual licenses has become an asset. And for many companies, the secondary market is the only way to obtain additional perpetual capacity without switching to a subscription model. ProLicense, the independent licensing consultancy, explains how this can be done in a legally compliant manner.
Why used VMware licenses matter now
A perpetual license does not expire. Broadcom cannot revoke legally acquired perpetual licenses. Only the manufacturer’s support ends with the maintenance contract. Those who retain their existing inventory and secure it through third-party support can avoid the expensive Broadcom subscription. If demand increases, it can be met with used perpetual licenses instead of switching to a subscription. Technically, used licenses are identical to new ones; they unlock the same range of features.
Is the purchase legally sound?
Yes. According to the case law of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), the trade in used standard software is permitted throughout the EU. Clear conditions must be met: The license was originally acquired legally within the EU, it is perpetual, the seller no longer uses it and confirms its uninstallation, and all rights are fully transferred. The key issue is an unbroken chain of evidence, especially with VMware. ProLicense reviews license agreements, portal records, and invoices to ensure the transfer is legally sound.
What to look for when buying
The key factor is compatibility with your existing inventory. Editions and versions must be compatible with your current environment, and the transferability and supporting documentation must be in order. The issue of support is handled separately: Ongoing support is provided by a third-party provider as needed, not through the subscription. And used perpetual licenses are not mixed with subscription licenses. ProLicense verifies marketability, documentation, and price before any purchase or sale takes place.
“Used VMware licenses are legal—that has been made clear by the European Court of Justice. What matters is an unbroken chain of evidence. We verify every license for lawful initial acquisition, transferability, and uninstallation so that both buyers and sellers are on solid ground,” says Sören Reimers, attorney and managing director of ProLicense.
Used VMware perpetual license vs. Broadcom subscription
| Criterion | Used perpetual license | Broadcom subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Cost model | One-time purchase, permanent use | Ongoing subscription per core |
| Term | Indefinite, does not expire | Ends with the subscription |
| Legal status | Resale permitted under ECJ ruling | No secondary market |
| Support | Available separately through affordable third-party support | Included in the subscription |
| Bundling | Only the products you need | VCF or VVF bundles |
| Cover additional needs | via the secondhand market, without a subscription | Only through a new subscription |
| Costs | Predictable one-time costs | recurring |
You can also sell
The market works both ways. Anyone with surplus VMware perpetual licenses—for example, after a consolidation or a switch to Nutanix—can sell them on the secondary market. The proceeds can finance the migration or reduce ongoing costs. ProLicense evaluates your inventory, assesses its marketability, and handles the transfer in a legally compliant manner.
“Many companies want to continue operating their VMware environment but don’t want a subscription. That’s exactly what the secondary market is for. Additional needs are covered with used perpetual licenses, and support is provided by a third-party vendor. This allows you to maintain predictability and remain independent of the Broadcom subscription,” says Markus Oberg, a partner at ProLicense.
ProLicense trades in used VMware licenses in a legally compliant manner, covers additional needs without a subscription, and safeguards license portfolios through third-party support. The goal remains the same in every case: minimal costs with full compliance. Anyone looking to buy or sell can reach ProLicense via the contact page or at +49 (0) 40-228 6828-0.
About ProLicense
ProLicense has been advising companies on software license management since 2009, independently of Oracle, Microsoft, VMware, and all other vendors. The founders, Sören Reimers (attorney) and Christian Grave (business graduate), each worked at Oracle for over eight years. ProLicense provides support for software audits, license negotiations, and ULA certifications; for transitioning to third-party support for software, hardware, and end-of-life open-source software; and for migrating to alternatives such as Azul, payara, or Nutanix. Used licenses are traded through the company’s own marketplace, ProLicense XChange. Compensation is performance-based and paid directly by the client, with no payments from vendors. The goal of every engagement: minimal costs with full compliance. Learn more at www.prolicense.com.
Press contact
ProLicense
Markus Oberg, partner and business development manager
Phone: +49 (0) 40-228 6828-0
Email: info@prolicense.com
Website: www.prolicense.com