For automation, the community.vmware.vcenter_license module allows you to add or remove keys.
If you are already SSH'd into the vCenter Server Appliance, you can use the built-in licensing command via the shell.
First, install the VMware PowerCLI module: vcenter license key command line
Once the key is in the inventory, use the LicenseAssignmentManager to assign it to the vCenter instance. : powershell
This is the most critical operation. Assigning a license to a vCenter instance itself is different from assigning to ESXi hosts. For automation, the community
PowerCLI is the industry standard for managing VMware environments via command line.
Managing vSphere environments through automation is a core requirement for modern IT infrastructure. While the vSphere Web Client is often the go-to for day-to-day operations, relying on the command line allows administrators to rapidly deploy, manage, and configure assets, including applying license keys to vCenter Server and ESXi hosts. : powershell This is the most critical operation
Connect-VIServer -Server "vcenter.yourdomain.local" -User "administrator@vsphere.local" -Password "YourPassword" Use code with caution. Viewing Current Licenses
PowerCLI is the most robust method for the workflow. It is object-oriented, supports modern APIs, and works across platforms.