The License Keys section of the deployment parameters worksheet is different depending on whether you download the deployment parameter worksheet from the VMware Cloud Builder appliance or from VMware Customer Connect.

Important: To deploy in subscription-ready mode for VMware Cloud Foundation+, you must download the deployment parameter workbook from VMware Customer Connect.

Using the VMware Cloud Builder appliance Deployment Parameter Workbook

The deployment parameter workbook downloaded from the VMware Cloud Builder appliance can only be used to deploy VMware Cloud Foundation in perptual license mode.

In the License Keys section, update the red fields with your license keys. Ensure the license key matches the product listed in each row and that the license key is valid for the version of the product listed in the VMware Cloud Foundation BOM. The license key audit during bring-up validates both the format of the key entered and the validity of the key.

During the bring-up process, you can provide the following license keys:
  • ESXi
  • vSAN
  • vCenter Server
  • NSX-T Data Center
Note: The ESXi license key is the only mandatory key. If the other license keys are left blank, then VMware Cloud Builder applies a temporary OEM license for vSAN, vCenter Server, and NSX-T Data Center.
Important: If you do not enter license keys for these products, you will not be able to create or expand VI workload domains.

Using the VMware Customer Connect Deployment Parameter Workbook

The deployment parameter workbook downloaded from VMware Customer Connect can be used to deploy VMware Cloud Foundation in subscription-ready mode and perpetual license mode.

To deploy in subscription-ready mode, select Yes for Use VMware Cloud Foundation+ Subscription. You do not have to enter any license keys.
An image showing the section of the Deployment Parameter Workbook where you can choose VCF+ subscription.
Important: If you deploy VMware Cloud Foundation in subscription-ready mode, you cannot switch to perpetual license mode without doing a full bring-up rebuild.

See the VMware Cloud Foundation+ Guide for more information about adding your on-premises deployment to VMware Cloud Foundation+.

To deploy in perpetual license mode, select No for Use VMware Cloud Foundation+ Subscription and enter the license keys.