Broadcom is cracking down on some VMware users hard - here's why

• Broadcom said to be sending out cease-and-desist letters to perpetual license holders
• They can use the products, but they mustn't use updates
• Legal action is being used as a threat

Broadcom is reportedly sending out cease-and-desist letters to VMware perpetual license holders whose support contracts have expired.

The news comes around 18 months after the company acquired VMware, when one of the first big changes it made was to end perpetual licenses in a bid to transition to more lucrative subscription-based models.

At the time, users reported seeing considerable price hikes, with many opting to leave the new Broadcom-led VMware.

Broadcom is addressing VMware perpetual licenses, again

Users can continue using existing software under their perpetual licenses, however they cannot access updates or support unless they had a pre-existing contract, Ars Technica explained.

Now, customers are receiving letters demanding that they stop using any ...