Sample Kickstart snippet:
install --firstdisk --overwritevmfs
rootpw --iscrypted $6$xxxx...
network --bootproto=static --ip=192.168.1.200 --netmask=255.255.255.0 --gateway=192.168.1.1
%post --interpreter=busybox
wget -O /vmfs/volumes/datastore1/tools.tgz https://drive.google.com/your-tools
(Note: Google Drive often requires cookies for direct wget; use gdown tool instead)
| Source | Trust Level | Safe for Production? | |--------|-------------|----------------------| | VMware Customer Connect | ✅ High | Yes (with valid license) | | Google Drive (public) | ❌ Low | No | | Google Drive (your own verified copy) | ✅ Medium (if checksums match) | Only for lab/backup |
Do not bypass official channels for hypervisor downloads in any business or security-sensitive environment. The risk of supply chain attacks is too high.
Officially, VMware requires a free account registration to download ESXi. However, large ISO files (approx. 450–500 MB) are often mirrored on Google Drive by trusted community members or IT professionals for rapid, login-free access. Warning: Always verify the SHA256 checksum of any unofficial download against VMware’s official values to prevent malware or corrupted binaries.
Once you have the genuine ISO, installation is straightforward.
Searching for "VMware ESXi 8.0 download ISO Google Drive" is a common workaround attempt by users who lack a support contract. While convenient on the surface, this method carries severe risks:
The Verdict: Always obtain the ISO directly from the Broadcom Support Portal. If you do not have a license, you cannot legally use the software in production.
Getting Started with VMware ESXi 8.0: Download and Installation Guide
VMware ESXi 8.0 remains one of the most powerful Type-1 hypervisors for building a homelab or managing enterprise workloads. While Broadcom's acquisition of VMware initially caused confusion regarding free access, the VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) 8.0 Update 3e is officially available for free download again.
This guide covers how to safely acquire the ISO and the steps to get your first host up and running. 1. How to Download the Official ISO vmware esxi 80 download iso google drive install
While you may find "mirror" links on sites like Google Drive or GitHub Gists, these are not recommended for security reasons. ISOs from unofficial sources could contain malware or be tampered with.
The safest way to get the VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO is through the Broadcom Support Portal. Official Download Steps:
Register/Login: Create a free account on the Broadcom Support Portal.
Navigate to Downloads: Go to the "My Downloads" section on the left-hand menu. Find the Hypervisor: Search for VMware vSphere Hypervisor.
Select Version: Choose Release 8.0U3e (or the latest available version) from the dropdown.
Accept Terms: You must accept the terms and conditions before the "Download" button becomes active. 2. Hardware Requirements
Before installing, ensure your hardware meets these minimum specs: VMware ESXi / Workstation / ISO Downloads - GitHub Gist
🔗 https://gist.github.com/DnsKzn/60e190caa4d630afe77c0bc85a5a307b. Gist
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide for those looking to set up a home lab or server environment using VMware ESXi 8.0.
How to Download and Install VMware ESXi 8.0: A Step-by-Step Guide (Note: Google Drive often requires cookies for direct
Building a robust home lab or enterprise virtualization environment starts with the right foundation. VMware ESXi 8.0 is that foundation. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding the right ISO to completing your first installation. 1. Where to Download the VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO
Since the Broadcom acquisition, finding the download portal has changed for many users. You can typically find the official installer through the Broadcom Support Portal by following these steps:
Log in/Register: Create a free account or log in with your existing VMware credentials.
Navigate to Downloads: Search for "VMware vSphere Hypervisor" or "ESXi" under the software section.
Choose Version 8.0: Select the 8.0 release to download the .iso file directly.
Note on "Google Drive" Downloads: While some community members share ISOs via Google Drive for quick access, it is strongly recommended to use official sources like Broadcom or hardware-specific mirrors from Dell Support or Lenovo Support to ensure the file hasn't been tampered with. 2. System Requirements for ESXi 8.0
Before you begin, ensure your hardware is ready. Key requirements include:
CPU: At least two physical cores; 64-bit x86 processor with hardware virtualization (Intel VT-x or AMD RVI) enabled.
RAM: Minimum 8 GB physical RAM (12 GB recommended for running virtual machines).
Storage: At least 32 GB of persistent storage (HDD, SSD, or NVMe) for the boot disk. Network: One or more Gigabit Ethernet controllers. 3. Preparing Your Installation Media | Source | Trust Level | Safe for Production
Once you have the ISO, you need to make it bootable. The most common method is using a USB flash drive.
Use Rufus: Download the free tool Rufus. Select your USB drive and the ESXi 8.0 ISO, then click "Start" to create a bootable installer. Download a Dell-Customised ESXi ISO
The official way to download the VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO is through the Broadcom Support Portal
, which now provides a free version (8.0 Update 3e) with an embedded license. While unofficial Google Drive links exist, official sources are recommended for security and stability. 1. Download the ISO Image
Broadcom has restored the free edition of VMware ESXi starting with version 8.0 Update 3e. Official Portal : Visit the Broadcom Support Portal . You must register for a free account. Navigation My Downloads VMware Cloud Foundation VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) Alternative (OEM) : For specific hardware, you can download Dell-customized ISOs HPE-customized ISOs directly from their respective support sites. 2. Create a Bootable USB Installer
Once the ISO is downloaded, you need to create installation media. How to Download VMware ESXi 8 Free Version
Getting VMware ESXi 8.0 up and running has changed significantly since Broadcom's acquisition of VMware. While you might find unofficial ISO mirrors on Google Drive, downloading from unofficial sources is a major security risk for a hypervisor that will control your entire server environment .
The good news is that the free version of ESXi 8.0 is officially available again via the Broadcom Support Portal . 1. Official Download (Recommended)
Avoid untrusted third-party links. Use the official Broadcom Support Portal to get a secure, verified ISO .