HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise) custom images are specialized versions of VMware ESXi that are optimized for HPE servers. These images include specific drivers and configurations that ensure better performance, compatibility, and support for HPE hardware.

: Type " HPE " in the search box within the Custom ISOs tab to see all available images, such as the HPE Custom Image for ESXi 7.0U3 .

Search for the exact product Type in the search bar: "VMware ESXi 7.0 U3" (or the latest available build). Note: As of 2025, U3 is the final release for the ESXi 7 branch).

While Broadcom briefly discontinued the free version of ESXi in early 2024, they reintroduced a free-to-use version (specifically version 8.0U3e) in April 2025. For , however, the "free" availability typically refers to the 60-day evaluation period or existing licenses, as official support for vSphere 7.x is scheduled to wrap up on October 2, 2025 . 🛠️ Official Download Process

HPE has moved their download portal to the . Do not get lost on the old "HPE Support Center."

, as it has replaced the legacy VMware Customer Connect site. These custom images are essential for HPE ProLiant, Synergy, and Superdome servers because they include integrated drivers for storage and network controllers that are not found in the standard VMware ISO. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Download Instructions