: If you are using Dell PowerEdge hardware, it is highly recommended to download the Dell-customized ISO (also available on the Broadcom portal or Dell Support) to ensure all drivers are included.

Whether you are a seasoned admin or a homelabber running a Dell PowerEdge in your basement, here is exactly how to get the official legally and safely.

This is not a review of the software’s features (which are excellent), but of the —which has become increasingly controversial.

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Before even downloading the ISO, verify your server hardware against VMware’s (VCG). ESXi 8 has dropped support for many older CPUs and network/storage controllers.