Log in to the Broadcom Support Portal.
Since May 2024, there has been a significant change in where you can find Dell's customized images. Older versions remain on Dell’s website, but the latest revisions are hosted on Broadcom's support portal. Below are the two methods for each scenario.
Verify your PowerEdge server model supports ESXi 8 using the VMware Compatibility Guide. Generally, 14th, 15th, and 16th generation PowerEdge servers support ESXi 8.
While the Broadcom portal is the primary source for the latest revisions, you can often find specific versions directly on the Dell Support site Search by Service Tag
Always verify the checksum after downloading to ensure the file isn't corrupted. vmware esxi 8 dell customized iso download
Whether you are running a single homelab PowerEdge T340 or a production cluster of R760xds, the Dell Customized ISO transforms ESXi from a generic hypervisor into a tightly integrated hardware-aware platform. Download it today, and give your Dell server the software it was designed to run.
: Go to the Dell Support Drivers Page and enter your PowerEdge Service Tag or select your model.
(most reliable):
To access these files, you must have a registered account on the Broadcom portal with an active software entitlement (Site ID). Download the Dell customized ESXi image files Log in to the Broadcom Support Portal
This guide explains everything you need to know—from understanding why the Dell image is superior to finding, downloading, and installing it on your PowerEdge servers.
Dell also provides a :
tab at the top. Filter by "Dell" to find the specific release, such as the "Dell Custom Image for ESXi 8.0U3 Install CD". Agreement & Download
Always verify the integrity of your downloaded ISO to prevent installation corruption. Compare the MD5 or SHA-256 checksum provided on the download page with your local file. Using PowerShell (Windows) powershell Below are the two methods for each scenario
Dell often uses vendor-specific network adapters (e.g., Broadcom 57416 or Intel X710). The generic ESXi image includes basic drivers, but the Dell image includes firmware-matched drivers. Without these, you may see the infamous error during installation.
using the Dell Add-on zip files.
A: No. The Dell ISO is a superset – it adds Dell-specific drivers and agents. Under the hood, the VMware base is identical.
VMware ESXi 8.0 is the bedrock of modern data centres, but installing the generic version on Dell PowerEdge hardware often leads to missing drivers or stability issues. To ensure your hardware performs at its peak, using the Dell Customized Image is the industry standard approach.