Horizon Connection Server License Key Is Invalid !!link!! -
It is important to note that when a license expires or is flagged as invalid, existing user sessions usually continue to run. However, the Connection Server will block new sessions and management tasks. To fix this quickly, try entering the key directly via the Horizon Console Settings > Licensing . If the UI is locked out, restarting the VMware Horizon Connection Server service
Restart the service to apply changes. Best Practices for Horizon License Management
If you have exhausted the steps above and still see the error, prepare the following for VMware GSS (Global Support Services):
In multi-Connection Server environments, the internal Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) database might fail to replicate the new license state across all replication partners. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting and Resolution
Horizon Administrator Console ➔ Settings ➔ Product Licensing and Usage ➔ Edit License Open the . horizon connection server license key is invalid
Are you using a , term , or Horizon Cloud SaaS subscription license?
: License keys are specific to major versions. A license for Horizon 7.x will not work on Horizon 8.x (2006 or later).
If you are trying to enable features (like App Volumes or Instant Clones) that are not included in your specific license tier, the Connection Server might reject the key or the features will remain greyed out.
: Perpetual and term licenses include a 30-day grace period beyond the expiration date. Once this ends, administrative tasks like creating new desktops are blocked. Troubleshooting & Remediation It is important to note that when a
Ensure the server matches the exact time of your Domain Controllers. If the time is off, force a sync using: w32tm /resync Use code with caution. Step 4: Clear the Horizon Browser Cache
Trying to activate features (like Linux desktops or specific vSphere integrations) using a lower-tier license key (e.g., Horizon Standard instead of Enterprise).
If you use a Horizon Universal License or subscription-based licensing:
You will typically see the red error banner in the ( https://<ConnectionServer>/admin ) under View Configuration > Product Licensing and Usage . Alternatively, the error may appear in the Event Database or the Windows Event Viewer under Applications and Services Logs > VMware Horizon . If the UI is locked out, restarting the
Navigate to in the left-hand navigation pane, then click Product Licensing and Usage . Under the Licensing tab, click Edit License . Enter the valid 25-digit license serial number.
Follow this structured plan to diagnose and fix the licensing issue:
Open the Start Menu, search for , and open ADSI Edit .
