Note: Use the steps below with appropriate administrative privileges and change-control processes. Assume ESXi 7.x (the 7.0 train) as the target; where specifics vary by minor release, guidance is provided so you can adapt to your exact 7.x build.
Once you have downloaded the ISO file, there are two primary ways to install it.
What you are using (e.g., Gen9, Gen10, Gen10 Plus)
install --firstdisk --overwritevmfs rootpw --iscrypted $6$... network --bootproto=dhcp --device=vmnic0 %post --interpreter=busybox # HPE specific - install iLO offline bundle esxcli software vib install -v /vmfs/volumes/datastore1/hpe-ilovib.vib %end vmware esxi 7 download iso hpe custom image
Note: As of 2024, VMware downloads have shifted to the Broadcom Support Portal. What is the HPE Custom Image for ESXi 7?
Minimizes the likelihood of a Purple Screen of Death (PSOD) caused by driver-firmware mismatches on complex server architectures. Prerequisites Before Downloading
Using the HPE custom image eliminates guesswork, ensures full hardware compatibility, and keeps both VMware and HPE support on your side. Note: Use the steps below with appropriate administrative
HPE Integrated Lights-Out provides a powerful method for mounting the ISO remotely. Log into the iLO web interface of your target server, navigate to the "Virtual Media" tab, click "Connect virtual media," browse to select the HPE-Custom-Image_703...ISO file, and click "Insert" to mount it. Set the server to boot from the Virtual DVD drive in the "Virtual Media" boot menu. The server will reboot and load the HPE-customized ESXi installer directly from the mounted ISO.
HPE custom images from 7.0 U2 onward are signed with both and HPE’s key . This allows UEFI Secure Boot to work seamlessly. However:
After downloading, verify the integrity of the file to ensure the download was not corrupted. What you are using (e
Where to get HPE custom images and VMware ISOs
Includes tools necessary for integration with HPE Intelligent Provisioning and OneView.
Not available. HPE’s ARM support is only for specific Developer Kits, not production.
Look for a tab labeled "Custom ISOs" or "OEM Customizations."
If you’ve ever spent a late night staring at a "No Network Adapters Found" error during a VMware installation, you know the specific kind of rage that hardware compatibility issues can induce.