move from vSphere 6 free edition to a paid edition

[vgorey]

helping out someone who was set up using vSphere 6 free edition. 

I want to convert them over to a paid edition to take advantage of backup API's.

Can I still get a paid version license that will work with this version without causing issues with their existing VM's 

[kenobi79]

Hi

you can easily add the license without the VMs having problems.
Adding the license unlocks some features, as you said, like the storage API's and other.

just add in the appropriate section and you're done

[battybishop]

very easy to do, when you get your license key do the following

1. sign into ESXi host client

2. choose the mange option on the left menu under host 

3. select Licensing option

4. click assign license and enter new license and press enter

[lukaszzasko]

Yes - you can do it using ESXi host web client. This will unlock API and more features. There is no impact on your running VMs during process - all VMs will still run.

Steps in process:

1. Login to host web UI

2. Choose Manage > Licensing

3. Choose assign license and enter new license

4. New license information appear shows you taht ESXi is licensed

5. Done

[a_p_]

When you buy a new license, it will be for the current version, which is v8 at this time.
However, once the license has been added to the customer connect portal, it is possible to downgrade the key to the version that you need. Once you are ready to upgrade to a newer version at some time in the future, you will then be able to upgrade that license key again.
Note: The portal only allows to up- or downgrade from/to the next version, so that - as in your case - the license has to be downgraded twice. v8 to v7, then v7 to v6.

André