Broadcom has radically simplified the VMware product portfolio, cutting it down to a handful of products.

This means that many VMware customers find themselves paying for software that they don't use.

VDI (virtual desktop infrastructure) products have been discontinued along with Carbon Black (VMware's endpoint protection solution).

When combined with changes to licensing, this revamped product portfolio is leading many businesses to look for a cloud computing exit strategy.

At Ascend Cloud Solutions, we can migrate from any source to any destination. However, we recommend Oracle Cloud VMware Solutions as a possible destination if you're looking to switch providers.

Since the Broadcom/VMware deal, VMware's licensing has changed significantly. It's moved towards a subscription model across the entire product suite.

It's also announced that perpetual offerings will no longer receive SnS (support and subscription) renewals.

In practice, this means that many customers find themselves paying for the full menu when they only need a few dishes. While bigger customers are relatively unaffected by the price hikes, small- to medium-sized businesses are struggling to keep up.

If this sounds like you, you might need help switching providers. This is something that Ascend Cloud Solutions can help with.

Global investment firm KKR has acquired VMware's end-user computing division. It will now operate as a standalone company.

There's no simple answer to this question. It depends on whether VMware can still meet your needs.

This will depend on two things: first, your budget, and secondly, the software that you need to maintain your day-to-day operations.

It may be that you're now in a position where you're paying by subscription for services that you don't need – or simply that your new bill is unmanageable. If that sounds like you, it could be time to switch.