Top VMware Alternatives After Rising Licensing Costs in 2026

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably opened a recent renewal quote from VMware and felt your jaw hit the floor. Yes, VMware licensing changes are an issue, and you aren’t the only one. 
Since the big industry shifts and the Broadcom acquisition, licensing costs have gone through the roof. It feels like every time you turn around, the pricing model changes, or the bundles get bigger and more expensive. For a lot of businesses, sticking with the status quo just isn’