Many users are encountering frustrating issues when trying to download the Vcenter Server 8 Standard Iso image from the Broadcom (formerly VMware) portal. If you’re seeing a “Not Entitled” message or a greyed-out download button, preventing you from accessing the essential ISO file, you’re definitely not alone. This article consolidates recent user experiences and potential workarounds to help you navigate this problem.
The Frustration: “Not Entitled” for vCenter 8 Standard Download
Users have reported that despite having valid licenses and Site IDs, they are unable to download the vCenter Server 8 Standard ISO. The problem seems specific to the vCenter appliance files, across different versions, while other downloads like Horizon and even vSphere Enterprise Plus might be accessible.
Danny Reynolds, in a recent forum post, highlighted the core issue: “I have the exact same thing but only for the vCenter appliance files – any version. I’ve been able to download everything else, including the Horizon stuff.” This indicates a potential entitlement glitch specifically affecting vCenter Server 8 Standard ISO downloads.
Milos007 also shared a screenshot confirming access to VMware services based on their SiteID, yet still facing download restrictions.
Image: User interface showing access to VMware services while facing download issues for vCenter ISO.
A Potential Workaround: Leveraging vSphere Entitlements
Andrew Pick shared a peculiar yet effective workaround that might help you bypass the “Not Entitled” roadblock. If you also hold entitlements for vSphere, even if it’s a different edition like Enterprise Plus, try accessing the vCenter downloads through the vSphere section.
Andrew explained, “If you also have entitlements to VSphere (which I assume you do if you own VCenter of course) then try navigating to the edition of VSphere you have access to (in our case it was Enterprise Plus) and see if you can get to the ‘VCenter’ downloads via that set of links?” This workaround suggests a possible misconfiguration in the Broadcom portal’s entitlement checks, where accessing through a related product entitlement might unlock the vCenter ISO download.
Steven Overloop further provided a direct link to solution files which has proven successful for some users needing updates, although its suitability for upgrades from older vSphere versions remains unclear.
Support Hurdles and the Broadcom Transition
Compounding the download issue, users have reported unhelpful responses from Broadcom support. Danny Reynolds mentioned, “My ticket said – we don’t have access to your license information – we can’t help you.” This response, echoed by others, points to potential inconsistencies in support processes during the transition to Broadcom.
The difficulties in contacting support, exemplified by issues with case IDs and virtual agents, further exacerbate user frustration. As Danny Reynolds pessimistically noted, “I knew Broadcom wasn’t a wise move for VM.”
Conclusion: Community Sharing and Potential Paths Forward
Downloading vCenter Server 8 Standard ISO should be a straightforward process, but recent portal issues are preventing legitimate users from accessing their entitled software. While Broadcom support channels may be facing challenges, community-driven solutions, like the vSphere entitlement workaround and direct download links, offer immediate relief.
If you are encountering the “Not Entitled” error, try the vSphere entitlement workaround. Keep an eye on community forums for updated solutions and persistent issues as the Broadcom-VMware integration evolves. Hopefully, Broadcom will address these entitlement and download issues promptly to ensure a smoother experience for VMware customers.
