Usage Meter 4.8 is now available for VCSP’s Core Utilization

We are delighted to announce the General Availability of VMware vCloud Usage Meter (UM) v4.8, starting February 6th, 2024.

VMware vCloud Usage Meter is a virtual appliance designed to be installed on a vCenter Server instance. Its primary function is to collect consumption data for products within the Cloud Service Provider and generate comprehensive reports.

It is crucial to emphasize that Usage Meter version 4.8, is the sole and mandatory tool VMware Cloud Service Providers are authorized and required to utilize for metering usage within the Broadcom Advantage Program (BAP) for CORE UTILIZATION. Any VMware Cloud Service Provider employing a previous version of Usage Meter must promptly upgrade to this specified version before the commencement of the Broadcom Advantage Program on April 1st, 2024. This adherence is of utmost importance and non-negotiable.

Whats New in this release?

Core Metering

It is crucial to highlight that Usage Meter 4.8 provides comprehensive support for independent clusters and effectively meter Core utilization in the new Broadcom Advantage Program. This means that the software efficiently manages and tracks the usage of separate clusters while also accurately metering Core utilization.

Photon OS Upgrade

We’re upgrading our Usage Meter 4.8 appliance from Photon OS 3 to Photon OS 4 to enhance supportability and fortify our infrastructure. This shift ensures our metering system remains aligned with industry standards and benefits from improved support features, security protocols, and performance optimizations.

Security Updates Addressing

1. Non Vulnerability updates: This release incorporates essential non-vulnerability updates into the product, enhancing its performance, stability, and overall user experience. While prioritizing security patches is crucial, non-vulnerability updates play a vital role in maintaining system integrity and optimizing functionality. These updates address various issues, including bug fixes, performance enhancements, and feature refinements, ensuring that the product remains robust, reliable, and aligned with evolving user needs and technological advancements.
2. FIPS updates: We are upgrading the FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standards) library to the latest version, reflecting our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance. FIPS-certified libraries are instrumental in safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring cryptographic integrity across our systems. By incorporating the latest FIPS library, we not only enhance the security posture of our products but also stay aligned with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
3. TLS 1.3: We’re introducing support for TLS 1.3, the latest in secure data transmission protocols. TLS 1.3 enhances encryption and handshake mechanisms, bolstering protection against eavesdropping and ensuring the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Rebranding vRealize

With this release, we’re renaming vRealize to Aria, signifying the evolution of the platform. Aria now provides modern enterprises with streamlined cloud management and automation capabilities, empowering them for success.

Bug Fix

The issue with Avi Load Balancer Usage Meter detecting service engines linked to the Standard Avi Load Balancer license edition has been resolved.

Why is this Version of UM important for the VCSPs?

Important Announcement: It is imperative to emphasize that the Usage Meter 4.8 fully supports separate clusters and Core utilization metering. Furthermore, its utilization is an absolute necessity for effectively metering the environment once the Broadcom Advantage Program commences on April 1st, 2024. Therefore, it is of utmost and critical importance to either upgrade your current Usage Meter instance to version 4.8 or implement a new instance that is running version 4.8.

Upgrade Path to Usage Meter v4.8

Verify the upgrade path to Usage Meter 4.8 from here.

Other Useful Resources

To learn more about Usage Meter 4.8, please use the resources Release Notes, Deployment and Administration Guide and Security Reference Guide.

Alternatively, have a look at the Product Page.

Remember, to get the latest updates, check this blog regularly, you can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and many demo videos and enablements on YouTube, especially our Feature Fridays series.

You can download Usage Meter 4.8 from here and look at the Interoperability with VCF here.

Click the below links to access:

• End User Reporting Guide
• Usage Meter Data Privacy Guide
• Product Detection Technical Whitepaper
• Usage Meter FAQs
• Usage Meter Registration API Guide
• Usage Meter Report API Guide

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Upgrade to Usage Meter 4.8, NOW….!