One of the standout aspects of VMware Explore 2024 in Barcelona wasn’t just the keynotes or the tech on display—it was the people. The VMware community has always been the backbone of this event, and it was a privilege to sit down with Megan Warren to reflect on what makes this community so special, why it’s so important, and how it continues to thrive even amidst all the changes at VMware.

Below, I’ve shared some of the highlights from our discussion, but make sure to watch the full video to hear our thoughts in more detail. You’ll also get tips on how to get involved with the VMware User Group (VMUG), whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere in the world.

Why the VMware Community Matters

1. A Platform for Connection
Community means so many things to different people. For Megan and me, VMware Explore is a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet new faces, and share stories with peers. Whether it’s through the social events, conversations on the expo floor or sessions run by the community, this event reminds us why VMware’s user base is among the most engaged and supportive in the tech world.

It was particularly inspiring to hear both Joe Baguley and Hock Tan acknowledge the critical role of the VMware community during the General Session. Their words reaffirmed that, even under Broadcom’s leadership, the contributions of VMUG members and vExperts will remain integral to VMware’s success.

2. Community as a Career Catalyst
From my personal experience, the VMware community has been pivotal to my career. Being part of VMUG and connecting with peers has provided countless opportunities to share strategies, overcome challenges, and grow professionally. Megan echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the community supports learning and development in ways that extend far beyond formal roles or job descriptions.

For anyone in tech—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out—finding your group and engaging with the community can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

3. Giving Back and Growing Together
One of the biggest takeaways from our discussion was the importance of giving back. The VMware community thrives because of its willingness to share knowledge, whether it’s through blogging, vlogging, or simply participating in conversations online or in person.

Megan shared how she learns from the incredible content others share and how that inspires her to give back in return. It’s a powerful cycle—when you contribute to the community, you’re not only helping others but also reinforcing your own learning.

If you’ve ever considered blogging or sharing your expertise, don’t let self-doubt hold you back. As Megan said, “If you help even one person, it’s worth it.” And, as I’ve often found, the person you help might just be your future self when you revisit your own content down the line!

The Friendliest Community in Tech

One thing we both agreed on is how welcoming and inclusive the VMware community is. Whether you’re a technical expert, a marketer, or just starting your journey, there’s a place for everyone. It’s a testament to the culture VMware has cultivated over the years, and it’s one of the reasons why events like VMware Explore feel so special.

Get Involved with VMUG

If you’re not already part of VMUG, there’s no better time to get involved. For those in the UK, the UK VMware User Group is happening at the end of the month, and it’s a fantastic way to meet others in the industry, share insights, and grow your network. If you’re outside the UK, head to the VMUG website to find your local chapter and start building connections that could transform your career.

Watch the Full Discussion

Want to hear more of our reflections on the power of community? Watch the full video below to join the conversation and find out why community is at the heart of everything VMware does.

Watch on YouTube

What does community mean to you? Whether it’s through VMUG, vExperts, or another group, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Connect with us on X (Twitter) or LinkedIn to keep the conversation going!

As VMware Explore 2024 in Barcelona comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the event, the changes VMware is undergoing, and what it all means for their future—and for us as users, customers, and partners. This year’s conference felt like a turning point, cementing the direction VMware is heading under Broadcom’s ownership.

Below, I’ve shared my key takeaways, but to get the full picture, watch my video embedded below for a deeper dive into my thoughts.

The Evolution of VMware: A Necessary Shift?

We all know VMware has undergone significant changes since the Broadcom acquisition, and for many, these changes haven’t been easy to stomach. However, walking through the event and speaking to VMware staff and attendees, it’s clear that these changes were perhaps necessary.

VMware had grown into a sprawling giant with a complex array of product lines. While vSphere remained beloved, the rest of the portfolio had become unwieldy. Under Broadcom’s leadership, VMware has been forced to simplify, focusing on its strengths and crafting a clearer vision for the future.

A Clear Vision: Private Cloud at the Core

That vision is private cloud—with VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) at its heart. At every session, every keynote, and every conversation, the focus was on VCF and its role in delivering VMware’s private cloud strategy.

Hock Tan, Broadcom’s CEO, reiterated on stage that simplicity was essential. Everyone loves vSphere, but everything else needed to be streamlined. VMware Cloud Foundation 9, while still in development, promises to be the biggest shift in VMware’s portfolio. VMware’s decision not to rush its release could be a good sign, allowing the time needed to deliver a product that’s operationally sound and easy to adopt.

But simplicity isn’t just about the product. VMware’s new pricing models and the shift to VCF have created challenges for customers, particularly those moving from traditional vSphere deployments. For VMware’s vision to succeed, it’s critical that these customers not only transition to VCF but also see the tangible benefits it offers. That’s a big ask, and only time will tell if VMware can deliver on that promise.

Inclusivity vs. Exclusivity

One of VMware’s greatest strengths has always been its inclusivity. Whether you were a small business running a two-node cluster or a global enterprise with hundreds of nodes, VMware was for everyone. But as VMware moves forward with its private cloud focus, this inclusivity seems to be fading.

Hock Tan openly acknowledged that not everyone will see the value in VMware’s new direction. For some, the costs and complexity of transitioning to private cloud won’t make sense. These customers will move on, and VMware will focus on serving organisations for whom the private cloud vision aligns with their strategy.

This shift feels significant. It’s a departure from VMware’s legacy as a solution for all and a step towards a more exclusive focus on private cloud specialists. For those who fit into this vision, VMware remains a strong partner. For others, alternatives will need to be explored.

A Smaller, More Focused Event

Reflecting on the event itself, VMware Explore 2024 felt smaller and quieter than previous years. It’s been suggested that attendance was about a third of what it was in past years, and the Expo floor reflected this with fewer vendors and simplified stands.

However, this didn’t diminish the sense of community. From the enthusiasm around Joe Baguley’s contributions to the respect for Hock Tan’s leadership, the VMware community is as strong as ever. The reduced scale of the event may signal VMware’s more focused strategy, but it hasn’t eroded the connections that make VMware Explore so special.

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, one thing is clear: VMware is betting big on private cloud, and VCF is the cornerstone of that strategy. For organisations aligned with this vision, there’s a lot to look forward to—VCF 9, private AI, and continued investment in simplifying operations.

But for those who don’t fit into this private cloud narrative, it may be time to re-evaluate what you need from your infrastructure. VMware’s new direction isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. As Hock Tan said, “Not everybody will see the value, but we move on.”

The next year will be pivotal as VMware works to deliver on its promises and customers decide whether this new direction aligns with their needs. Whatever happens, one thing is certain: VMware remains a key player in shaping the future of IT.

Watch My Full Critique

Want to hear more of my thoughts? Watch my video below for a detailed, pragmatic critique of VMware Explore 2024, the changes underway, and what it all means for the industry.

Watch on YouTube

What do you think of VMware’s new direction? Do you see value in their private cloud strategy, or are you exploring other options? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on LinkedIn to continue the conversation!

The show floor at VMware Explore is always an exciting place to get a pulse on the industry. It’s where you can see which vendors are making waves, which technologies are being showcased, and, sometimes, what’s missing. This year, at VMware Explore 2024 in Barcelona, I took some time to explore the Expo Hall, reflecting on how it compares to previous years and what these changes might mean for VMware, its partners, and the wider IT landscape.

Below, I’ve shared some of my key observations, but to truly get a feel for the show floor, watch the full video embedded below!

Key Observations from the VMware Explore Show Floor

1. Who’s In and Who’s Missing
The first thing that struck me as I walked into the Expo Hall was the presence of major sponsors like Google, Microsoft, Rubrik, and Intel—big names that signal where VMware’s focus lies. But equally noticeable were the absences.

HPE, Dell, and AWS—companies that once dominated these events—were nowhere to be seen. HPE and Dell, staples of past VMworld conferences, didn’t have a presence, and AWS’s absence may reflect ongoing tensions in its relationship with VMware. These gaps felt significant and perhaps hint at shifts in VMware’s partner strategy and focus on its own ecosystem, particularly VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF).

2. A Smaller, More Simplified Show Floor
The Expo Hall itself felt smaller and less crowded than in previous years. Large, hardware-packed stands that were once the highlight of these events have been replaced with more streamlined setups. Companies like Lenovo, NetApp, and Pure Storage were present, but their stands reflected the industry’s shift towards cloud services and away from traditional hardware.

Even the VMware stand itself emphasised simplicity, aligning with the company’s messaging around VCF, private AI, and private cloud solutions. It seems VMware is leaning into its streamlined vision not just in product offerings but in how it presents itself at events like these.

3. Fewer Attendees on the Show Floor?
Walking around, it was hard not to notice that the Expo Hall felt quieter than in past years. While the rest of the conference seemed as lively as ever, the Expo floor didn’t have the same buzz. This could simply be down to timing, but it might also reflect changing priorities.

Perhaps attendees are focusing more on VMware’s end-to-end solutions rather than cherry-picking from multiple vendors. With VMware’s strong emphasis on VCF and an integrated ecosystem, fewer external vendors and a simplified show floor may be a natural consequence.

4. The Evolution of Community Presence
One of the highlights of the Expo Hall was the community stand, a reminder that while the format of VMware’s events may evolve, the role of its community remains critical. It’s always inspiring to see the contributions of VMUG and vExperts celebrated in these spaces, even as the industry shifts.

Final Thoughts: What Does It All Mean?

The VMware Explore 2024 show floor tells a story—not just about the event itself, but about the changing dynamics of VMware and the wider tech industry. The focus on VCF, the absence of some big names, and the streamlined setups all point towards a more integrated and VMware-centric ecosystem.

Whether this approach excites or frustrates attendees will depend on their perspective. For those fully bought into VMware’s vision, this year’s event felt like a natural progression. For others, particularly those used to the diversity of technologies and vendors at past events, it may feel like a shift away from the collaborative spirit that once defined these conferences.

Watch the Full Tour

Want to see the Expo Hall for yourself? Check out my full walkthrough in the video below, where I share more thoughts on what’s changed and what it might mean for the industry. Don’t forget to watch last year’s video for a side-by-side comparison!

Watch the Full Expo Tour on YouTube

What do you think of this year’s show floor? Are you seeing similar trends at other events? Let me know in the comments!

During VMware Explore 2024 in Barcelona, we had the privilege of sitting down with Umesh Mahajan, Vice President and General Manager of Broadcom’s Application Networking and Security (ANS) Division. Umesh’s passion for the ANS portfolio was palpable as he discussed its mission, the evolving landscape of security challenges, and how Broadcom is positioning VMware's offerings to address them.

We posed five key questions during the interview, each shedding light on Broadcom’s vision and VMware’s approach to innovation in this critical space. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the standout points, but we highly recommend watching the full video for Umesh’s detailed insights. You can find the video embedded below!

Key Takeaways from the Interview

1. The Vision Behind ANS
   Umesh began by outlining ANS’s mission: to provide seamless security and load balancing solutions tightly integrated with VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). Broadcom is focused on delivering advanced services that are as easy to deploy as they are powerful. In Umesh’s words, VMware aims to create solutions that “just click in” like adding features to a Tesla – simple, intuitive, and ready to use.

2. Industry Trends and Challenges
   From ransomware attacks to increasing complexity in security infrastructure, the stakes for businesses are higher than ever. Umesh highlighted how frequent and sophisticated attacks, particularly on financial institutions, have underscored the need for best-of-breed security and load balancing solutions. VMware’s approach is to make these tools accessible and scalable for businesses of all sizes, providing both protection and recovery capabilities in one unified stack.

3. Key Announcements and Licensing Simplification
   Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware has brought significant changes to how ANS products are packaged and licensed. VMware now offers just three key SKUs: one for Avi load balancing and two for security (firewall and advanced threat protection). These SKUs have been streamlined to reduce complexity and ensure seamless integration with VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF).

   However, these products are now positioned as add-ons to VCF, meaning they are optional but essential for customers deploying VCF. As Umesh explained, organisations need robust security and load balancing capabilities to complete their VCF deployments, making these Advanced Services critical for operational success. Broadcom’s goal is to simplify the consumption and deployment of these services, ensuring customers can get up and running quickly with minimal friction.

4. Introducing Security Scoring and Co-Pilots
   A standout moment was Umesh’s discussion of security scoring, a feature in development that will help organisations gauge their security posture at a glance. Similar to Microsoft’s approach, the security score will highlight areas of vulnerability, empowering businesses to make informed decisions. Additionally, VMware’s investment in AI-driven Co-Pilots promises to simplify security operations by providing actionable insights in real time.

5. The Road Ahead for ANS
   Broadcom’s focus is clear: delivering scalable, best-of-breed products that integrate seamlessly with VMware’s ecosystem. Whether through automation, AI-driven insights, or enhanced recovery capabilities, ANS is committed to simplifying the way businesses secure and optimise their private cloud environments.

Why Watch the Interview?

For anyone interested in VMware’s evolving approach to networking and security. Umesh not only outlines how ANS is addressing today’s challenges but also shares his vision for a simplified, integrated future. From ransomware protection to AI-powered Co-Pilots, there’s a lot to unpack.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from the leader shaping the future of VMware’s security and networking portfolio. Click below to watch the full interview:

Watch the Interview on YouTube

Final Thoughts: Simplifying Security for a Complex World

As Umesh said, security doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By delivering intuitive solutions and minimising complexity, VMware and Broadcom are equipping businesses to handle today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s. Whether you’re a long-time VMware customer or exploring their solutions for the first time, this interview offers valuable insights into how VMware’s Application Networking and Security Division is leading the way.

What do you think of VMware’s approach to security and networking? Let us know in the comments below!

I’m excited to be heading back to VMware Explore in Barcelona from 4th to 7th November 2024. This year feels different—it’s my first VMware Explore since Broadcom completed its acquisition of VMware, and that shift is sure to be a key talking point throughout the conference. From changes in VMware's portfolio and pricing to the spin-off of the EUC (End User Computing) division into the newly branded Omnissa, this year’s event is set to have a very different feel.

What’s Changed with the Broadcom Acquisition?

The acquisition by Broadcom has brought some significant shifts for VMware’s customers. Broadcom has streamlined VMware’s portfolio, aiming for simplicity. While this is a welcome move for those who prefer fewer overlapping products and clearer pathways to deployment, the flipside has been a notable increase in pricing. Many customers have been vocal about these price hikes, and it has left a bitter taste for some.

It will be interesting to see how this translates into attendance and the general mood at the conference. Will the community come together as it always has, or will there be a more reserved, cautious vibe? The spin-off of the EUC division into Omnissa means that this year, VMware Explore is likely to focus much more on infrastructure and development rather than the blend of EUC and infrastructure content we’ve seen in past years.

Hopes for Innovation and Community Spirit

Despite the changes, I’m looking forward to seeing if VMware can keep its usual spirit of community unity alive. Conferences like these have always been about more than just the sessions—they’re a chance to connect, to share stories, and to get a real pulse on where the industry is headed. I hope to hear announcements and messages that signal not only further innovation but also a focus on making technology easier and more accessible, allowing VMware to stand out from its competitors.

There’s a lot of discussion in the industry that Broadcom’s primary focus is now on selling VMware’s full suite of solutions to large enterprise customers. I’d like to see a commitment to innovation that brings value across the board, not just to the biggest customers. This is an opportunity for VMware to show that it can still be a leader in the hybrid cloud space and to demonstrate how its strategy is evolving.

Top Tips for First-Time Attendees

Having attended every VMware Explore (and VMworld) event that has taken place in Barcelona, I’ve gathered some tips for making the most out of the experience:

• Explore the Expo Hall: It’s not just about VMware. The expo hall is a fantastic opportunity to meet other ecosystem vendors. Take the time to explore, ask questions, and get demos—you never know what insights you’ll pick up.

• Engage with the Community: The real magic happens when you connect with others. Find opportunities to chat with fellow attendees, whether that’s in the halls between sessions or at social events in the evening. It’s a great way to get a sense of the latest trends and challenges people are facing.

• Use the Metro and Be Prepared: Barcelona’s metro system is easy to navigate, and getting a 10-trip pass usually covers my time there. Bring comfortable trainers, don’t over-pack your bag, and leave space for the SWAG you’ll pick up along the way.

• Plan Your Sessions, but Be Flexible: Use the session scheduler to book key sessions you don’t want to miss, but remember that you can catch recordings later. Prioritise time in the expo hall and talking to people—those real-time conversations are often where the most valuable insights come from.

• Stay Safe: While Barcelona is an incredible city, be mindful of pickpockets and avoid wearing your conference badge in public spaces. Most incidents I’ve heard of involve distractions at night—keep your wits about you, especially after social events.

Setting Goals for the Conference

For me, it’s important to go into the conference with clear goals—what do I want to learn, and why am I attending? This ensures I make the most of my time there and come away with meaningful insights. Here’s what I’ll be focusing on at VMware Explore this year:

1. Hybrid Cloud Strategy: How is VMware really helping organisations on their hybrid cloud journey? Has their strategy shifted since the acquisition, or is it more of the same?

2. VMware and Symantec Collaboration: With Symantec already under Broadcom’s umbrella, I’m curious to see how this deeper relationship with VMware will influence their overall security strategy. What new integrations or synergies can we expect between VMware’s cloud capabilities and Symantec’s security expertise?

3. Practical AI Applications: We’ve all heard the AI hype, but I’m looking for real-world examples—how are businesses actually using AI today? I want to hear beyond the buzzwords and see the practical applications that are making a difference.

4. Post-Acquisition Innovation: Now that the acquisition is complete, what’s next for VMware’s innovation? Beyond changes in pricing and packaging, what new technologies or improvements are coming down the pipeline?

Let’s Connect!

Who else is planning to attend VMware Explore in Barcelona this year? I’d love to hear what you’re looking forward to, and what you think of the changes we’ve seen over the past year. Let’s catch up, compare notes, and see where VMware is headed together! Whether you’re excited, uncertain, or just curious to see how things play out, it’s going to be an event to remember. See you there!