Unable to Update License Keys in VCF Operations 9.1 Due to Expired Entitlements and Missing License Server Appliance

Products

• VCF Operations

Issue/Introduction

In VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) 9.1, attempts to update license keys in VCF Operations fail when previously applied core allocation keys have expired.

The VCF Operations user interface blocks standard key updates on expired allocations.

Inspection reveals that the required dedicated VCF 9.1 License Server appliance was not deployed during initial environment setup.

You will see Error "The due date for submitting your usage report has passed and you Will lose access to your service on MM/DD/YYYY. To prevent service interruption, download a usage file and submit it in the VCF Business Services console."

Environment

• VMware Cloud Foundation 9.1
• VCF Operations 9.1

 

Cause

This issue occurs due to two compounding factors:

1. Architectural Absence: The required VCF 9.1 dedicated License Server appliance was omitted during initial deployment.

2. Entitlement Expiration: Core license allocations reached their expiration date without prior key updates in VCF Operations, causing VCF Operations to enter an unlicensed state where user interface updates are blocked.

Resolution

To resolve this issue and restore license management functionality in VCF Operations, perform the following procedure:

1. Deploy License Server Appliances:

   Deploy the VCF License Server OVA in both the primary () and secondary () environments.

2. Register to BCS and VCF Operations:

   • Register both License Server appliances with the Broadcom Business Services Console (BCS).

   • Register both License Server appliances within VCF Operations.

3. Assign Primary Subscription Licenses:

   Assign new active primary license keys for both and within VCF Operations.

4. Configure Reporting Mode:

   Change the reporting mode for both and from disconnected mode to connected mode to enable automated 24-hour license synchronization with BCS.

5. Update Usage and Assign Add-ons:

   • Verify license usage data across all and management instances.

   • Assign necessary add-on licenses, including vSAN Add-on licenses.

Additional Information

For related licensing guidelines and procedures, refer to:

• KB 446056: Licensing VCF Operations 9.1 in Disconnected (Offline) Environments

• KB 440630: Upgrade Sequence and Related Issues for VMware Cloud Foundation 9.1

• KB 438868: VCF 9 Broadcom Services Console License Issues Warning Message

• KB 437756: Due Date Passed or Unable to Update License Usage in VCF Operations 9.0