H1b approved 2017 (almost 8years back), but never activated

Hi, I had my H1b Approved in 2017, never activated it — and left USA before 1st Oct 2017.

Now its 2025, am I still cap-exempt. Is there a thing 6year rule?because I heard its just the max stay on h1b that people confuse to be max time you can reactivate?Do I still have a possibility to use my H1b?

Does going back to old employer or new employer makes a difference?

Thanks.