Here is the full, detailed guide on downloading the VMware ESXi 8 Dell Customized ISO.
Go to Dell Support
https://www.dell.com/support
Navigate to Drivers & Downloads
Alternative direct method (most reliable): vmware esxi 8 dell customized iso download
Select ESXi 8 version
Filter by your server model (optional but recommended)
Download the ISO
VMware-VMvisor-Installer-8.0.0-xxxxxx.x86_64-Dell_Customized-AXX.iso⚠️ Requires login – You need a Dell account (free) to download. Enterprise customers may need their Dell support contract number.
Without the Dell customization, ESXi loses direct communication with iDRAC. Many users report that after installing vanilla ESXi, their PowerEdge server fans ramp up to 100% and stay there. The Dell ISO includes the IPMI driver and OpenManage integration that allows ESXi to read inlet temperatures and adjust fan speeds accordingly.
If you are managing a Dell PowerEdge server—whether it’s a brand new R760 or a trusty R740xd in the data center—you might be tempted to download the standard VMware ESXi 8 ISO from VMware’s website. Don’t. Here is the full, detailed guide on downloading
For Dell shops, the "Dell Customized ISO" is the gold standard. Here is everything you need to know about finding, downloading, and installing the official VMware ESXi 8 Dell image.
The only official download location is Dell’s Support Site, not VMware’s site.