Broadcom is making it significantly more difficult for VMware customers to migrate to other platforms by blocking the download of its Virtual Disk Development Kit (VDDK). This crucial SDK is essential for enterprises looking to transition away from VMware, as it supports several migration tools such as Microsoft Azure Migrate, Red Hat’s Migration Toolkit, and others essential for facilitating this process.
Previously, VDDK was available for download freely, but now it is only accessible to Broadcom’s top-tier partners, leaving other users without viable options. This decision was executed abruptly, with no prior indication or alternative links provided, leading to many users encountering broken download links.
In the wake of this disruption, users have voiced their frustrations on platforms like Reddit, where some shared links to archived versions of VDDK. However, those files have since been removed, and the page has been excluded from the Internet Archive, causing further complications for users in need of the software.
Since acquiring VMware, Broadcom has reportedly raised prices and bundled products in ways that have not favored consumer experiences, even as it achieves higher financial returns with its strategy. By complicating access to vital compliance tools, Broadcom may be trying to retain customers but risks pushing them towards exploring alternatives altogether.
