The latest HPE SPP ISO includes the ESXi 7.0 U3 custom image as an embedded component. This is the "top" method for firmware+OS alignment.
Before searching for a download, you must be aware of a significant change. In November 2021, VMware removed ESXi 7.0 Update 3, Update 3a, and Update 3b from all online and offline portals. This removal also affected HPE’s original customized images based on these builds. Consequently, if you search for an older image from around that time, you will likely not find it.
Below it, a reply from StorageSlayer:
There are two primary methods to obtain the image, but
If the Broadcom Support Portal is unavailable or you need to search for a specific older build: The latest HPE SPP ISO includes the ESXi 7
Before downloading the , ensure your system meets the following requirements: HPE ProLiant Server Generation: Gen9 or higher recommended.
Disclaimer: Ensure you check the VMware Compatibility Guide (VCG) to verify your specific ProLiant server model supports ESXi 7.0 U3. If you'd like, I can: Tell you are supported List the new features in ESXi 7.0 Update 3 Help you find the latest driver for a specific network card
The top priority for John had been to ensure a smooth upgrade process, and he had achieved it. He could now focus on other critical tasks, confident that his virtual infrastructure was in top shape.
New HPE servers often require the HPE customized image for successful installation. In November 2021, VMware removed ESXi 7
Validated by HPE for hardware stability and compatibility, reducing "Purple Screens of Death" (PSOD).
Maya smiled. Then she copied the ISO to three different drives, two clouds, and a cold storage tape.
As of the Broadcom acquisition of VMware (late 2023/early 2024), the distribution model for vendor-specific ISOs (such as HPE) has undergone significant changes. Historically, HPE provided a customized ISO that included drivers for Smart Array controllers, NICs, and HPE-specific management tools.
The customized image embeds HPE Common Information Model (CIM) providers directly into the ESXi hypervisor. This exposes granular hardware health metrics to your management plane. Below it, a reply from StorageSlayer: There are
Always check the checksum after downloading to prevent installation corruption.
VMware ESXi 7.0 Update 3 HPE Customized ISO Image: Architecture, Deployment, and Lifecycle Management
While the standard VMware ESXi ISO works on most servers, the is specially tailored to ensure maximum compatibility and performance.