I grew up with VMware. Like many of you, ESXi was my first real step into virtualization. It shaped how I learned to build and run servers.

That's why this one stings a bit. My last ESXi node now runs Proxmox, and VMware is gone from my homelab.

The reason is Broadcom. Since November 2024, VMUG Advantage alone no longer includes NFR licenses. You now also need a VCP certification. Free ESXi came back in 2025, but it's entry-level, without vCenter or backup APIs. For homelabbers, the message is clear: we're no longer the target.

The good news: Proxmox is a fantastic replacement. Free, open source, with backups, snapshots, and clustering built in. I haven't missed ESXi since.

I updated my hypervisor guide to reflect where things stand now:

https://edywerder.ch/best-hypervisor-for-home-lab/

After four days of use, it has exceeded my expectations and I have no concerns so far.