Broadcom acquired VMware and migrated all download portals. The old VMware Customer Connect portal is completely offline. All downloads now go through the Broadcom Support Portal.
Because of the recent changes, you may be required to log in or create an account on the Broadcom Support Portal to finalize the download. Free Licensing for ESXi 7
Due to recent platform migrations, the primary source for these downloads has moved. Broadcom Support Portal
VMware offers a free version of the ESXi hypervisor, often referred to as . HPE Custom Image for VMware vSphere 7.0 Update 3 vmware esxi 7 download iso hpe custom image free
Press during the POST boot screen to enter the Boot Menu. Select iLO Virtual CD-ROM as the boot device. Option B: Creating a Bootable USB Drive
These images are essential for HPE Gen9, Gen10, and newer servers because they include critical drivers for network and storage controllers not found in the generic VMware ISO.
But the HPE custom ISO remains the simplest path. Broadcom acquired VMware and migrated all download portals
Includes specialized firmware for FlexFabric adapters. Recommended HPE ESXi 7.0 Versions Hardware Generation Recommended ESXi 7.0 Version HPE ProLiant Gen10 / Gen10 Plus ESXi 7.0 Update 3 (Latest) Fully supported and optimized. HPE ProLiant Gen9 ESXi 7.0 Update 3 Check the HPE matrix for specific CPU support. HPE ProLiant Gen8 and Older Not Recommended / Unsupported Lacks modern CPU instruction sets. Installation Tips Create Bootable Media
While it may install, it is not supported and may cause instability. It is designed specifically for ProLiant servers.
Reduced risk of "Purple Screen of Death" (PSOD) caused by driver-firmware mismatches. 2. Licensing and "Free" Availability Because of the recent changes, you may be
In the past, HPE hosted these ISOs directly on their Support Center. Always use VMware’s portal to ensure you get the most recent version.
Downloading the HPE Custom Image for VMware ESXi 7.0 for free has become more complex following the transition of VMware Customer Connect to the Broadcom Support Portal
The file size is approximately 600-700 MB. It is a standard bootable ISO.
Before installing, ensure your HPE server’s is up to date. The drivers included in the ESXi 7.0 custom image are designed to work in tandem with specific firmware versions. Using an old firmware version with a new custom ISO can lead to driver conflicts.