Iso Download Better ((install)): Vmware Esxi 8 Dell Customized

To download the VMware ESXi 8.0 Dell Customized ISO, you should primarily use the Broadcom Support Portal, as VMware migrated these latest revisions there following the Broadcom acquisition. Using the Dell-specific ISO is significantly better for PowerEdge servers because it includes pre-verified drivers for Dell-specific hardware like PERC controllers and specialized NICs, which aren't in the standard VMware image.  Download Instructions: Broadcom Support Portal 

Step 1: Verify Support

Ensure your Dell server is on the VMware Compatibility Guide (VUG) for ESXi 8.0. vmware esxi 8 dell customized iso download better

Have you switched from vanilla to Dell customized on ESXi 8? Share your experience in the comments below (or on your favorite admin forum). To download the VMware ESXi 8

1. Go to the Dell support website: Visit the Dell support website (https://www.dell.com/support) and navigate to the Drivers & Downloads section.
2. Select your server model: Choose your Dell server model from the list or enter the service tag or express service code to find the correct page.
3. Search for ESXi 8 drivers: On your server's support page, search for ESXi 8 or VMware ESXi 8 in the search bar.
4. Find the customized ISO: Look for a link to the Dell customized ISO for VMware ESXi 8. It might be listed under Operating Systems or VMware.
5. Download the ISO: Click on the link to download the customized ISO file.

Best Practice: Always download the latest Update (U) version available unless your environment specifically requires an older build for consistency. The Dell customization usually aligns with the VMware release schedule, arriving a few weeks after the vanilla VMware release. Go to the Dell support website : Visit

Draft: Why downloading a Dell-customized VMware ESXi 8 ISO is better for Dell servers

Using a Dell-customized VMware ESXi 8 ISO when installing hypervisors on Dell PowerEdge servers offers practical advantages over the stock VMware image. Below is a concise, structured draft you can use for a blog post, internal doc, or email.

Method A: iDRAC Virtual Media (Recommended for Production)

1. Mount the Dell Customized ISO under iDRAC > Configuration > Virtual Media.
2. Boot the server to System Setup > Boot Settings.
3. Set Virtual Optical Drive as first boot.
4. Install ESXi. Notice that the installer immediately recognizes your PERC and BOSS drives—something the vanilla ISO often fails to do.

1. VMware ESXi 8 download page: Visit the VMware ESXi 8 download page (https://www.vmware.com/go/esxi).
2. Click on "Customized ESXi Installers": On the ESXi 8 download page, click on the link to Customized ESXi Installers.
3. Select Dell as the vendor: Choose Dell as the vendor and select your server model.
4. Download the customized ISO: Download the Dell customized ISO for VMware ESXi 8.