Focus on private cloud: a counter-model to public cloud providers

Broadcom's vision for VCF 9.0 is based on independence: the platform enables companies to operate their cloud services in their own data centers, with VMware providers or in a hybrid environment with AWS and Azure. In contrast to the previous focus, particularly the close cooperation with AWS for VMConAWS, the company has now moved away from public cloud fixes. Medium-sized customers who are only interested in individual VCF functions are moving to the second tier.

Technical progress and simplified operation

VCF 9.0 brings numerous technical innovations. The highlights include

• Centralized management: improved user experience with the new "VCF Operations Console" for operators and a separate "VCF Automation Console" for developers.
• AI and GPU integration: NVIDIA GPU support for AI applications and multi-tenancy capabilities.
• More efficient resource management: Live patching of ESXi hosts and automated lifecycle management.
• Improved security: Integration of Zero Trust principles and protection against ransomware through VMware Live Recovery.
• Increased performance: VMware NSX offers up to three times the switching performance, while vSAN ESA with Global Deduplication reduces costs by up to 34%.

Important limitation for vSphere editions

In addition to these advances, however, there are still limitations: The other two remaining vSphere editions, Standard and Enterprise Plus, will remain on version 8.0 U3. It is currently unclear when these will be updated to version 9.0.

Changes to the license and support model

One important change is the switch to an exclusively subscription-based license model. The support package has been adapted to a more flexible 6+1 model, giving customers six years of general support and one year of optional extended support. At the same time, the three-year release cycle allows more planning security for major releases.

However, some functions and products such as vCloud Director and vVOLs will be discontinued. This is particularly relevant for existing customers: Upgrades are possible from vSphere 8.0 directly to VCF 9.0. However, ESXi 7.0 hosts can no longer be managed.

Conclusion: opportunities and challenges

With VCF 9.0, Broadcom has introduced a technically mature platform that shines with a standardized cloud environment. The version offers numerous advantages in terms of governance, efficiency and security, particularly for companies that rely on data sovereignty and AI applications. However, the cost issue remains a decisive factor compared to the public cloud.