: Certain newer HPE servers strictly require this custom image for a successful initial installation. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Important Limitations VMware ESXi Images for HPE Servers | HPE EUROPE
The keyword includes but you must understand the two meanings of "free" in this context:
Because of the recent changes, you may be required to log in or create an account on the Broadcom Support Portal to finalize the download. Free Licensing for ESXi 7
Don't download the massive "Offline Bundle" ( .zip ) by accident—that is for esxcli updates. You want the (approx. 650MB) to burn to USB (use Rufus or BalenaEtcher).
Locate the latest image, such as . Click the "Download" button.
Select and click on Local ISO File . Browse your local machine to select the downloaded HPE ESXi 7.0 ISO.
Log into your registered account on the Broadcom/VMware portal.
The exact of your server (e.g., DL360 Gen10, ML350 Gen9)