Some "patches" modify low-level storage drivers. Users have reported random VMFS corruption, lost snapshots, and unbootable VMs after applying GitHub-sourced cracks.
Since the Broadcom acquisition, many downloads have moved. Check the new portal to see if your legacy "Free" entitlements are still accessible under your profile. Is ESXi 6.7 Still Safe to Use? vmware esxi 6.7 license key github
VMware offers a free version of ESXi that can be used for personal learning and small-scale deployments. It has certain limitations compared to the paid versions but can be a good starting point. You can download it directly from VMware's website. Some "patches" modify low-level storage drivers
Many users want the full Enterprise Plus features without paying. So they turn to GitHub, hoping to find a leaked or generated license key. Check the new portal to see if your
The VMware User Group offers an for all vSphere products, including ESXi 7.0 and 8.0 (not 6.7, but newer). For about $210/year, you get full Enterprise Plus keys for up to 6 CPUs. This is legal, intended for learning and homelabs, and includes vCenter.