Once you have downloaded the VMware-VMvisor-Installer-8.0.x.x-xxxxxx.x86_64.iso file, you need to write it to media.
Do not download from third-party torrents or shady sites claiming "ESXi 8.0 2021" — that mismatch is a red flag for malware, cryptominers, or ransomware.
Go directly to:
customerconnect.broadcom.com/vmace (requires free account)
Would you like a step-by-step guide to downloading the legitimate ESXi 8.0 ISO from Broadcom instead?
VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO: Complete Guide to Downloading the Latest Version
While the keyword "Download -2021- VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO" contains a common chronological error—VMware ESXi 8.0 was actually released in October 2022—it remains one of the most sought-after virtualization platforms. Since Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, the download process has shifted to a new centralized portal.
Whether you are looking for the free version for a home lab or the enterprise-grade installer for production, this guide explains how to secure a legitimate ISO. 1. How to Download the VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO
Official downloads for all VMware products are now hosted on the Broadcom Support Portal. Step-by-Step for Paid/Trial Users:
Log In: Navigate to the Broadcom Support Portal and sign in with your credentials.
Access Downloads: Click on "My Downloads" in the left-hand sidebar. Download -2021- Vmware Esxi 8.0 Iso
Select Product: Search for "VMware vSphere". Note that you must be "entitled" (have an active subscription or support contract) to see the standard installer.
Choose Version: Select the 8.0 release to view specific ISO images like Update 3i. Step-by-Step for the Free Version (Evaluation):
Broadcom recently reinstated the Free Hypervisor for individual use.
Register: Create a free account on the Broadcom Support Portal.
Find Free Software: On the homepage, look for a box labeled "Free Software Downloads available HERE".
Search for Hypervisor: Search for "VMware vSphere Hypervisor".
Download: Accept the terms and conditions to start the ISO download. 2. Latest Version & Build Info (As of 2026)
The "2021" version people often search for is likely ESXi 7.0 Update 2/3, which was the current standard at that time. For those moving to the 8.0 branch, here are the most recent builds: Release Name Release Date Build Number ESXi 8.0 Update 3i February 24, 2026 ESXi 8.0 Update 3g July 29, 2025 ESXi 8.0 Update 3e April 10, 2025 3. System Requirements for ESXi 8.0
Before downloading, ensure your hardware is compatible. ESXi 8.0 has stricter requirements than its predecessors. Build numbers and versions of VMware ESXi/ESX Once you have downloaded the VMware-VMvisor-Installer-8
To download the VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO, you must now navigate the Broadcom Support Portal, following their acquisition of VMware. While "2021" was originally the launch year for ESXi 7.0 Update 2, ESXi 8.0 actually premiered on October 11, 2022.
The latest stable releases, such as Update 3i (released February 24, 2026), offer significant improvements in scalability and hardware support compared to older versions. Official Steps to Download VMware ESXi 8.0 ISO
Since the migration of VMware assets, all downloads are hosted by Broadcom.
Access the Portal: Visit the Broadcom Support Portal and log in. If you have an old VMware account, you may need to migrate it to the Broadcom infrastructure. Navigate to Downloads:
Click on "Software" and then select "VMware Cloud Foundation".
Alternatively, look for the "My Downloads" section and search specifically for "VMware vSphere".
Choose Your Version: Select version 8.0. You will typically see options for "Primary Downloads" or "Custom ISOs" (which include vendor-specific images for hardware like Dell PowerEdge ).
Free Version Availability: As of April 2025, Broadcom reintroduced a free version of the hypervisor. Look for VMware vSphere Hypervisor (ESXi) 8.0 Update 3e or later in the "Free Software Downloads" section to obtain a standalone installer. Key Features & Hardware Requirements
ESXi 8.0 is a bare-metal hypervisor designed for high-performance virtualization. How to Download VMware ESXi 8 Free Version If you are a student, hobbyist, or IT
Note: VMware vSphere 8.0 (ESXi 8.0) was officially released in October 2022, not 2021. This article clarifies that timeline while targeting the search intent, providing archival context and upgrade paths.
If you are a student, hobbyist, or IT professional building a homelab, you do not need a paid enterprise license. VMware offers a Free ESXi Hypervisor license.
How to get it:
Note: The free version lacks vCenter API access for backups, but is perfect for running VMs on a single host.
Because ESXi 8.0 postdates 2021, any download file that mixes those labels is likely incorrect or unofficial — rely on VMware Customer Connect or your hardware vendor for verified ISOs.
Related search suggestions provided.
I notice you're asking for a download review for "VMware ESXi 8.0" but with a "2021" label.
Here's the critical fact: VMware ESXi 8.0 was released in October 2022, not 2021. Any file claiming "ESXi 8.0 - 2021" is either: