We’re excited to announce the official release of VMware Cloud Foundation Usage Meter v9.0 (VCF Usage Meter), formerly known as VMware vCloud Usage Meter. This new version will be available starting May 7, 2025.
VCF Usage Meter Overview
VCF Usage Meter is a virtual appliance deployed within a vCenter Server instance in a VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) private cloud. It is essential for tracking CPU core usage across VMware Cloud Service Provider (VCSP) environments and generating accurate usage reports. Version 9.0 introduces enhanced metering capabilities, improved security, and full support for VCF 9.0 (upon its general availability).
This version is a mandatory upgrade for all VCSPs, as it is required for compliant CPU core utilization metering under the program guidelines.
Mandatory Upgrade Timeline: 90-Day Compliance Window
All VCSPs must upgrade to VCF Usage Meter 9.0 within 90 days of its general availability. After August 5, 2025, Broadcom will no longer accept usage data from older versions, and failure to upgrade may result in loss of VCSP authorization.
Non-compliance may lead to billing discrepancies, limited support, and removal from the VCSP program. To avoid disruptions, we strongly recommend beginning your upgrade planning immediately.
What’s New in VCF Usage Meter 9.0
Support for VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0
VCF Usage Meter 9.0 is fully compatible with the upcoming VCF 9.0 release, offering a seamless transition for VCSPs. Metering begins automatically once vCenter endpoints are added. Existing reporting tools such as the Hourly Usage Report (HUR), Virtual Machine History Report (VMHR), and usage billing feeds remain available and are now integrated with the VCF Business Services console.
Note: License keys are being replaced by cloud-activated entitlements, simplifying activation and ensuring billing accuracy.
OAuth-Based Authentication
VCF Usage Meter 9.0 introduces OAuth app-based authentication for secure data uploads to the VCF Business Services console. This new method enhances security by allowing the console to access metering data without requiring user credentials.
During installation or upgrade, a unique OAuth token is generated for each VCF Usage Meter instance. This token is required for secure communication and cannot be bypassed. VCSPs can manage tokens directly from the console, including revocation and rotation, via self-service RESTful APIs. For implementation details, refer to the API documentation.
vDefend Add-On Metering and Overage Billing
VCF Usage Meter 9.0 now supports metering and overage billing for VMware vDefend Firewall add-ons, including:
– VMware vDefend Firewall
– VMware vDefend Firewall with Advanced Threat Prevention
– VMware vDefend Advanced Threat Prevention Add-On
To begin metering, simply add your NSX Manager endpoint. Usage is tracked via the Hourly Usage Report in the VCF Business Services console.
Important: Only Broadcom-issued license keys are supported. Legacy VMware NSX keys are no longer valid and may result in inaccurate billing or non-compliance. Review your NSX environment before upgrading to avoid unexpected charges.
VCF Business Services Console Integration
VCF Usage Meter 9.0 is now managed through the new VCF Business Services console—a unified platform designed to streamline cloud operations and support. Key features include:
– Single sign-on across Broadcom services
– Simplified access management via Broadcom Site ID
– Seamless site-to-tenant integration
– New Customer Hourly Usage Report (CHUR)
All existing user accounts and configurations will be migrated from the VMware Cloud Services Console to the new platform, preserving familiar workflows while enhancing scalability and usability.
Why VCF Usage Meter 9.0 Matters
VCF Usage Meter 9.0 is essential for accurate metering of VMware Cloud Foundation Private Cloud environments using Broadcom license keys. Upgrading to or deploying version 9.0 is mandatory to remain compliant.
You must complete the upgrade by August 5, 2025.
Additional Updates
VCF Business Services Console Migration
Coinciding with the launch of VCF Usage Meter 9.0, the new VCF Business Services console will also go live. For more information, visit the VCSP Portal and refer to the “VCF Cloud Console Migration Updates” section.
If you encounter access issues, log in to Broadcom partner resources via OKTA, then search for “Cloud Console training for VCSP Pinnacle and Premier Partners” in Learning@Broadcom.
Watch the What’s New in VCF Business Services Console video.
Core Cap Update
Effective May 12, 2025, VCSP license key downloads will be capped at 200% of committed quantities. For example, a 10,000-core commitment will allow up to 20,000 cores in license key generation. This cap ensures flexibility while preventing over-provisioning.
