The Connection Server stores licensing state in a local database. If this database becomes corrupted due to an improper shutdown, disk full, or failed upgrade, the server cannot parse the license file, defaulting to the "invalid" message—even if the key is perfect.

Run on Connection Server (command line as admin):

C:\Program Files\VMware\VMware View\Server\tools\bin\vdmadmin.exe -L

The Horizon Administrator console can be misleading. Use the vdmadmin command-line tool on the Connection Server.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

cd "C:\Program Files\VMware\VMware View\Server\tools\bin"
vdmadmin -L -l

What to look for:

Fix for Edition Mismatch: You cannot change the edition via GUI. You must reinstall or redeploy the Connection Server, or contact VMware support to convert your license edition.

Your credentials: