Many users report that after logging into Broadcom, the download button is grayed out or missing. Here is why and how to fix it:
You need a 64-bit x86 CPU with LAHF/SAHF support. Practically, this means:
VMware distributes ESXi through its website. If you don’t already have one, create a VMware Customer Connect account (free). Use a valid email; you’ll need it to access downloads and product keys.
Once ESXi 7 is installed and you see the yellow/gray configuration screen:
Without a license, ESXi will run in evaluation mode for 60 days, after which VMs cannot power on unless you apply a license.
Even with the correct ISO, users face issues. Here is how to troubleshoot:
After clicking the ISO, you will be prompted to select a license type: vmware esxi 7 iso download
The VMware ESXi 7 ISO is a fantastic piece of software engineering that is trapped behind a clunky, corporate acquisition portal.
Recommendation: If you have a supported server or a compatible Intel/AMD workstation, the download is worth the hassle. However, homelab users using consumer motherboards should check the HCL (Hardware Compatibility List) or look into custom ISOs before downloading.
Following the acquisition of VMware by Broadcom, the process for downloading the VMware ESXi 7.0 ISO has migrated exclusively to the Broadcom Support Portal
. The previous "VMware Customer Connect" links are largely deprecated or redirect to the new portal. Official Download Procedure
To obtain the official ESXi 7.0 installer, you must have an account on the Broadcom Support Portal Broadcom support portal
: Sign in to your account. If you do not have one, you must register and complete your profile. Navigate to Downloads : On the left-hand menu, select "My Downloads" Search for vSphere : Use the search bar or select "VMware Cloud Foundation" from the division menu. Select Version : Look for "VMware vSphere" and choose the major version Choose the ISO Standard ISO : Found under the "Products" tab. Click "View Group" VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) row to see specific releases. : Found under the "Solutions" Many users report that after logging into Broadcom,
tab if you are looking for an update rather than a full installer. Accept Terms
: You must agree to the Terms and Conditions before the download button becomes active. Broadcom support portal Availability & Licensing Notes Download latest ISOs and patches for vSphere ESXi
To download and install the VMware ESXi 7 ISO, you must now Broadcom Support Portal
, as Broadcom recently acquired VMware and changed how software is accessed. Note that the "Free" version of ESXi was officially discontinued in early 2024, though existing license holders can still access their downloads. 1. How to Download the ISO Since the migration, all VMware downloads are hosted on the Broadcom Support Portal : You must have a registered account on the Broadcom Support Portal Navigate to Downloads VMware Cloud Foundation from the product categories. My Downloads Search for VMware vSphere and choose Version 7.0 Select the File
: Look for the "VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) ISO" (approx. 344 MB) and click the download icon. Broadcom support portal 2. Create Bootable Media Once you have the
file, you need to put it on a USB drive to boot your server. Requirements : A USB drive with at least 8GB of space. (Windows) or balenaEtcher (Cross-platform). : Select your USB drive, select the ESXi 7 ISO, and click to create the installer. 3. Installation Steps Boot from USB Without a license, ESXi will run in evaluation
: Insert the drive into your server, enter the BIOS/UEFI, and set the USB drive as the primary boot device. Start Installer
: Select the "ESXi-7.0.x-standard Installer" from the boot menu and press Accept EULA to accept the license agreement. Select Drive
: Choose the local disk (HDD/SSD/NVMe) where you want to install the OS. Set Password : Create a strong Root Password . You will need this to log into the web interface later.
to start the installation. Once finished, remove the USB drive and press to reboot. 4. Initial Configuration
After rebooting, the server will display a yellow and gray screen (the Direct Console User Interface or DCUI). Access the Web UI : The screen will show an IP address (e.g.,
Broadcom requires you to associate a license key or evaluation request with your profile. Fix: Go to the “My Entitlements” section and click “Request a Download” or “Start Evaluation”. For the free hypervisor, search for “VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) 7.0 Free” and request a license key.
