Always verify your hardware against the and the Cisco UCS Hardware and Software Compatibility Matrix before installation. Step-by-Step Installation Guide
: My Downloads > VMware vSphere > Select Version (e.g., 8.0) > Custom ISOs tab.
With Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware, download locations have shifted. Here are the primary locations to download the latest Cisco custom images in 2026: 1. Broadcom Support Portal (Primary) vmware esxi cisco custom iso top download
Broadcom hosts the official repository for all VMware software, including OEM custom images.
Using the correct custom image prevents installation failures and ensures long-term system stability. Why You Need a Cisco Custom ISO Always verify your hardware against the and the
Deploying VMware ESXi on Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) hardware requires specialized software images. Standard VMware installer images lack the specific drivers needed for Cisco's unique hardware architecture. Using the official Cisco Custom ISO ensures stability, performance, and full supportability for your enterprise infrastructure. Why You Need a Cisco Custom ESXi ISO
: It includes validated drivers for Cisco-specific hardware like the VIC (Virtual Interface Card) , storage controllers, and enic/fnic drivers that are not in the standard VMware base image. Here are the primary locations to download the
If a specific pre-built ISO is unavailable or you need to include newer drivers, you can build your own using the within vCenter:
Once you have the correct ISO, follow this battle-tested deployment method:
In the KVM console, go to the menu and choose Power Cycle System (or Warm Reset).
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