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Cannot License VMware Workstation after upgrade
Symptoms
Cannot power on virtual machine in Workstation
Virtual machine does not start in Workstation
Virtual machine does not power on after upgrading to new version
You receive the error, Serial number doesn't match existing licenses
Purpose
This article guides you through troubleshooting why Workstation cannot be licensed and thus virtual machines do not power on. The article identifies and provides you steps to eliminate common causes leading to the issue.
Resolution
The below listed steps provide instructions or links to documents to eliminate possible causes and take corrective action as necessary. The steps are ordered in the most appropriate sequence to isolate the issue and identify the proper resolution.
Note: Workstation 6 was previously sold for Linux and Windows operating systems and serial numbers work only for the specific host platform. If you enter a Workstation 6 for Windows serial number on the Linux version or vice versa, it does not license the product and you receive the Serial number doesn't match existing licenses error. To confirm whether the serial number supports your current platform check the order details for product description.
Each major version upgrade of Workstation leads to new serial numbers. For example, if you upgrade from Workstation 6 to Workstation 7, you receive a new serial number from VMware. In addition, you have to ensure new software binaries are downloaded from VMware website and installed on top of the existing software.
Note: If your problem still exists after trying the steps in this article, please file a support request with VMware Support and note this KB Article ID in the problem description. For more information, see How to Submit a Support Request.
