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Dell provides its drivers as a single "Dell Add-on" within the ISO. This means you can use Image Builder or vSphere Lifecycle Manager to apply the Dell customizations to an existing cluster without reinstalling. The generic ISO forces you to source individual drivers, leading to "dependency hell."
Last updated: Q2 2025 – Compatible with vSphere 8.0 Update 3 and later.
Custom images include support for Dell Boss (Boot Optimized Storage Solution) cards, preventing installation failures on specialized boot drives. OpenManage Integration and Hardware Monitoring
By using a Dell customized ISO for VMware ESXi 8, you'll simplify the installation process and ensure that your Dell hardware is properly recognized and supported.
Dell rigorously tests each customized ISO on all supported PowerEdge models (e.g., R760, R660, R650, MX7000). Generic ISOs may work, but only Dell’s image is certified for their hardware lifecycle.
: These images are extensively tested by Dell engineers specifically for PowerEdge configurations, reducing the risk of "purple screen of death" (PSOD) or driver-related crashes.
This is the critical step. Click on the tab at the top of the downloads pane. In the search box that appears, type Dell . The portal will now filter the list to show all available Dell Custom ISO versions. Note: For PowerFlex appliances, do not use these Custom ISOs; refer to dedicated Dell documentation.
When to use the DellEMC hypervisor vs the regular ESXI image?