Alternate Solutions to Broadcom Products
Introduction – Why Alternatives Are Critical in Broadcom Negotiations
Broadcom’s aggressive approach after acquiring VMware, Symantec, and CA has many customers feeling trapped. Prices are climbing, and contract flexibility is shrinking.
CIOs and IT procurement teams are concerned about vendor lock-in and budget surprises. In this climate, knowing your alternatives isn’t just comforting – it’s critical leverage.
Having credible replacement options at hand changes the negotiation dynamic.
You’re no longer forced to accept whatever Broadcom offers. By actively evaluating other solutions, you send a message: we have options. Even a limited pilot of an alternative can pressure Broadcom to reconsider steep increases or rigid terms.
The goal isn’t to immediately abandon Broadcom’s products; it’s to strengthen your bargaining position. Simply put, alternatives are your insurance policy and negotiating chip in dealing with Broadcom.
Short paragraphs, bullet lists, and a pragmatic tone will guide you through the options. We’ll cover replacement choices for VMware’s stack, Symantec’s security suite, and CA’s mainframe tools.
We’ll also be realistic about switching costs, so you can use these options as leverage without overpromising an easy migration. Let’s explore the alternatives that can keep Broadcom accountable at the table.
Read our guide to Leveraging Third-Party Support & Alternatives: Gaining Negotiation Leverage Against Broadcom.
VMware Alternatives (vSphere, vSAN, NSX)
Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware has raised concerns among enterprises about potential price hikes and forced bundling.
To push back, evaluate other platforms for virtualization, storage, and networking. Replacement options for VMware’s core products include:
- vSphere (Compute Virtualization): Consider Microsoft Hyper-V (built into Windows Server) or open-source KVM (as used by Red Hat virtualization). Nutanix AHV is another enterprise-grade hypervisor included with Nutanix’s hyper-converged platform. Some organizations are even shifting certain workloads to cloud VMs (AWS EC2, Azure VM) or container platforms like Red Hat OpenShift to reduce reliance on VMware’s hypervisor. These alternatives can handle many vSphere workloads, though each comes with a different ecosystem and learning curve.
- vSAN (Software-Defined Storage): Leading options include open-source Ceph for distributed storage or Nutanix’s built-in storage fabric (part of its HCI solution). Traditional vendors offer alternatives too: Dell EMC PowerFlex (formerly ScaleIO) provides scalable SDS similar to vSAN. If you’re considering cloud services, options like AWS EBS or Azure managed disks can substitute for on-premises vSAN by offloading storage to the cloud. Each storage alternative has its own integration requirements and performance profile.
- NSX (Software-Defined Networking): For data center network virtualization, look at Cisco ACI (Cisco’s SDN solution) or Juniper Contrail (network virtualization platform) as direct competitors. These allow software-controlled networking and security policies comparable to NSX. In cloud environments, native networking tools (AWS VPC, Azure Virtual Network) provide segmentation and security groups that can replace some NSX functionality when migrating workloads. Networking alternatives often require coordination with network teams and may not replicate every advanced NSX feature, but they can meet most needs with proper design.
VMware Summary: Enterprise virtualization, storage, and networking can be done outside VMware’s umbrella.
Hyper-V, KVM, and Nutanix cover compute; Ceph, PowerFlex, and Nutanix cover storage; and Cisco or cloud networking covers SDN needs. Each alternative involves trade-offs in features and team skill sets, so plan pilots to validate compatibility.
More insights, Third-Party Support Providers for Broadcom Customers: Pros & Cons.
Symantec Alternatives (Endpoint, DLP, Email Security)
Broadcom also owns Symantec’s enterprise security portfolio, and many customers fear price surges or reduced support. To gain leverage, identify modern security solutions that could replace Symantec’s products.
Key alternatives to Symantec under Broadcom include:
- Endpoint Protection: Many enterprises are shifting to Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (formerly ATP), which is often included in Windows 10/11 or Microsoft 365 E5 licenses. It provides solid anti-malware and EDR capabilities without extra cost. For best-of-breed endpoint security, CrowdStrike Falcon and SentinelOne are top-tier options recognized for their advanced threat detection and response capabilities. These cloud-managed platforms can serve as an alternative to Symantec Endpoint Protection, boasting strong track records; however, they come with their own subscription requirements and integration considerations.
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): If Symantec DLP is becoming costly, Microsoft Purview (part of Microsoft’s compliance suite) offers DLP features integrated with Office 365 and endpoints, an attractive option if you’re already in the Microsoft ecosystem. Dedicated DLP vendors, such as Digital Guardian or Forcepoint, provide comprehensive data loss prevention across endpoints, networks, and clouds. They can replace Symantec’s DLP modules, but expect careful tuning and user education during any DLP switchover to avoid business disruption.
- Email Security: Symantec’s email security solutions can be replaced with industry leaders Proofpoint or Mimecast, which specialize in email threat protection, spam filtering, and phishing defense. These services are cloud-based and work with all major email systems. Additionally, if you have Microsoft 365 E5, you already own Defender for Office 365 – leveraging it can cover anti-phishing and email malware protection as part of your existing suite. Ensure any new email security service is tested for false positives and integrated with your email flow before retiring Symantec’s solution.
Symantec Summary: Broadcom’s Symantec suite has viable replacements that many enterprises are already using.
Microsoft’s security stack and specialized vendors, such as CrowdStrike or Proofpoint, can fill the gaps. Switching security tools isn’t plug-and-play – plan pilots to verify policy coverage and avoid lapses in protection.
CA Mainframe Alternatives (Monitoring, DB Tools, Security)
Broadcom’s ownership of CA Technologies means mainframe software (the backbone of many large enterprises) is under the Broadcom banner. Broadcom has been known to impose steep renewal terms on these products, betting that customers feel stuck.
To counter this, evaluate alternatives for CA’s mainframe tools in these categories:
- Workload Automation & Monitoring: BMC Control-M is a powerful alternative for job scheduling and workload automation, comparable to CA’s AutoSys or CA7 schedulers. For performance and systems monitoring, IBM OMEGAMON (and the IBM Tivoli suite) can replace CA’s mainframe monitors, such as SYSVIEW. Many mainframe shops already run a mix of BMC and IBM tools alongside CA; if you don’t, be aware that these vendors are eager to help migrate off BMC. Transitioning batch schedules or monitoring systems is complex, but these tools have decades of enterprise use and migration methodologies available.
- Database Tools: CA’s database management utilities for DB2 and IMS can be swapped with IBM’s own DB2/IMS tools that come with or complement the databases. IBM offers native solutions for performance tuning, backup, and recovery. Additionally, Rocket Software provides drop-in replacements for many CA database and system utilities (Rocket has acquired and developed tools originally from IBM and others). While functionally similar, different tooling may require staff re-training and parallel runs to ensure no loss of database oversight during the change.
- Mainframe Security: Broadcom controls CA’s security products (ACF2 and Top Secret) that manage mainframe user access. The primary alternative is IBM RACF (Resource Access Control Facility), which is IBM’s built-in security management system for z/OS. Converting from CA ACF2/Top Secret to RACF is a major undertaking – it essentially means re-implementing all your security rules on a new platform. Some organizations consider it if Broadcom’s terms become unbearable, but it requires extensive planning. If you already run RACF in parts of your environment, you could migrate other LPARs to it to consolidate. Otherwise, be cautious: switching mainframe security software is the equivalent of a heart transplant in the mainframe world.
CA Mainframe Summary: IBM and BMC offer replacements for most Broadcom (CA) mainframe tools, from automation to database management.
These alternatives are enterprise-proven. However, mainframe software is deeply embedded – migrations will be lengthy and must be methodical to avoid disrupting critical operations.
How to reduce risks, Mitigating Risks When Using Alternatives to Broadcom.
Switching Cost Reality – Why Broadcom Knows Migration Is Hard
Switching away from Broadcom’s products isn’t like flipping a switch. Broadcom executives are well aware that moving off VMware, Symantec, or CA solutions can take months or years.
It requires re-training staff, redesigning processes, and meticulous integration testing. In some cases, it may also involve running two systems in parallel during a transition, which can be expensive and complex.
This inertia is Broadcom’s ally in negotiations. They know many customers ultimately won’t follow through on a costly migration unless necessary.
Broadcom often targets customers it deems “unlikely to switch” with the highest price increases. This means if you threaten to leave without a credible plan, they might call your bluff.
To use alternatives as leverage, you must acknowledge the switching costs internally (and implicitly to Broadcom).
Be realistic about the effort required to migrate. When you bring up alternatives, do so in a measured way, emphasizing that you’re exploring a business case.
Broadcom will take your evaluation seriously only if they sense you understand the complexities, yet are still willing to consider switching. That credibility comes from concrete actions, such as pilot programs.
Start small pilot projects on a few non-critical workloads or locations. For example, run a few test VMs on Hyper-V, or roll out Microsoft Defender to a subset of devices.
These pilots serve two purposes: you learn the true effort involved, and Broadcom sees that you’re not just bluffing. Yes, migrations are hard – but the mere possibility becomes powerful when you’ve invested even modest time in an alternative.
Negotiation Tactics with Alternatives – How to Use Without Overplaying Hand
When sitting down with Broadcom (or in renewal calls), tactically leverage your alternatives. The key is to signal that you have choices without antagonizing the vendor or making empty threats.
Here are practical tactics to consider:
- Position it as Evaluation, Not Threats: Frame your exploration of alternatives as due diligence and smart business, not as an attack on Broadcom. For example, say, “We’re evaluating Hyper-V for certain workloads to ensure we have a cost-effective strategy.” This signals prudence, not hostility.
- Use Active Pilots as Proof: If you’ve begun testing another product, mention it calmly. For instance: “We’ve begun a limited pilot with Microsoft Defender on a subset of our devices.” This shows Broadcom that your organization is serious about exploring options. It implies, without saying outright, that you could expand that pilot if needed.
- Maintain a Professional Tone: Focus on facts and business needs. Example language: “As part of our review, we’re looking at Nutanix for some use cases to improve resilience.” This keeps the conversation about your company’s requirements. Avoid emotional or accusatory remarks about Broadcom’s prices or service; stay focused on what your business needs and is evaluating.
- Don’t Overplay Your Hand: Never claim you’ll rip everything out next month if that’s not realistic. Broadcom knows the challenges; if you boast too much, it could hurt your credibility. Instead, express concern about costs and interest in alternatives. Something like, “We need to explore other platforms in case we can’t reach a viable renewal – it’s our responsibility to the business.” This underscores that you prefer a fair deal but are ready to act if necessary.
- Ask for Value, Not Just Discounts: Use your knowledge of alternatives to request tangible value. For example, if evaluating a move to the cloud, ask Broadcom to match the flexibility or cost model of a cloud provider. Or if Microsoft security is included in your license, push Broadcom to justify the extra spend on Symantec. This approach turns your alternative evaluation into specific requests: lower the price, add a feature, extend support, etc., or we have reason to shift.
By employing these tactics, you transform alternatives from a vague threat into a credible negotiation lever.
Broadcom representatives are more likely to give concessions if they sense you are informed, prepared, and willing to take action – but still open to staying if the deal is right.
It’s a fine balance: you want to be firm but fair, making it clear you have choices without burning the relationship bridge unnecessarily.
Checklist – When to Seriously Consider Replacing a Broadcom Product
Not every annoyance justifies a costly migration.
However, there are scenarios where you should genuinely consider switching away from a Broadcom-owned product.
Use this checklist as a guide to know when it might be time to pull the trigger:
- 🚩 Renewal Sticker Shock: The renewal quote exceeds your budget by a wide margin, such as a sudden 50-100%+ increase over last term. If Broadcom’s pricing crosses a pain threshold where the ROI of switching improves, it’s time to evaluate alternatives in earnest.
- 🚩 Product No Longer Strategic: The product has become legacy or non-strategic for your direction. For example, if you’re modernizing apps to cloud or containers, a legacy VMware or CA tool might not be worth premium renewal fees. A stagnant roadmap or an EOL (end-of-life) notice can also trigger this – why pay more for a tool with no future?
- 🚩 Existing Overlap in Your Stack: You discover you already have licensed alternatives that are underused. A common case is security: many companies own Microsoft 365 E5, which includes Defender, making Symantec Endpoint an unnecessary additional expense. If an alternative is essentially “free” (already paid for) or bundled in other contracts, you have a strong case to replace the Broadcom product and save costs.
- 🚩 Vendor Roadmap Misalignment: Broadcom’s plans conflict with your IT strategy. For instance, if Broadcom changes VMware licensing (e.g., discontinuing enterprise agreements you rely on or charging per-core in a way that penalizes your scale), that might prompt you to reassess your decision to stay. Similarly, if Broadcom is not investing in features you need – say you require cloud integration and they’re slow to deliver – an alternative might align better with your roadmap.
- 🚩 Deteriorating Support or Terms: If you’ve experienced significantly worsened support quality or onerous contract terms (strict audit clauses, reduced flexibility on renewals), consider it a red flag. Alternatives might offer a more customer-friendly partnership. Culture and support matter; if Broadcom’s approach is hindering your operations, exploring another vendor could yield long-term operational benefits that extend beyond just cost.
The more of these red flags that apply, the stronger the case for actually migrating rather than just threatening. If only one minor flag is present, use it as leverage but perhaps not as a full exit plan. If multiple flags are waving, build a business case for switching – at that point, it might truly be the best option for your enterprise.
One-Sentence Summaries by Product Category
To recap, here are quick one-liner takeaways for each Broadcom product category and its alternatives:
- VMware Suite: Hypervisors like Hyper-V, KVM (Nutanix AHV), and cloud-native platforms can replace VMware’s vSphere/vSAN/NSX. Still, each demands careful integration and skills development in exchange for greater flexibility and potential cost savings.
- Symantec Enterprise Security: Modern security solutions (such as Microsoft and CrowdStrike) can cover endpoint, DLP, and email needs in place of Symantec. However, switching requires thorough testing to maintain protection, and it is easiest when you already own the alternative in your stack.
- CA Mainframe Tools: IBM and BMC provide equivalent mainframe software for most CA products, offering an escape route from Broadcom’s price hikes. However, transitioning core mainframe systems is complex, so it’s a move to undertake only with strong justification and planning.
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