How to reset ESXi evaluation license

To reset your expired ESX 4.x, ESXi 4.x, ESXi 5.x or ESXi 6.x 60 day evaluation license:

1. Login to the HOST via SSH or Shell
2. Remove /etc/vmware/license.cfg
3. Copy /etc/vmware/.#license.cfg to /etc/vmware/license.cfg
4. Restart the vpxa service

Or simply copy the code below and paste it into your SSH session.

rm -r /etc/vmware/license.cfg
cp /etc/vmware/.#license.cfg /etc/vmware/license.cfg
/etc/init.d/vpxa restart




To check license,




Manage --> Licensing --> Check the expiry date




Reference