What is the benefit of vSphere Standard from free ESXi if vCenter Center is still sold separately?

I'm trying to understand what is what in their vSphere suite.

So, ESXi has a free edition --- I can install it and use it with vSphere Web Client.

But when I buy vSphere Standard --- what else do I get if vCenter Server is not included?

For example, HA, DP and FT --- are they even accessible without the vCS?

Or the whole purpose of a single vSphere license is to build a single VM unit controllable by a separate vCS instance (bought separately)?

Solution 1:

There is no point to buying vSphere Standard (or any SKU) without vCenter Server or the vCenter Appliance.

If you don't have a previous vSphere purchase on record, vCenter and vSphere licenses can usually be acquired in a bundle at a discount.