: Select the latest release (specifically 8.0 Update 3e or newer).

You must register an account at the Broadcom Support Portal . You will need to provide valid contact information.

The free version, while capable, is strictly for non-production use and has several technical restrictions: How to Download VMware ESXi 8 Free Version

The download process has moved from the legacy VMware Customer Connect to the Broadcom Support Portal.

If you are a home lab user looking to learn ESXi 8:

: Unlike previous versions that required you to copy a license key from the website, this new version often comes with a baked-in license , meaning it is already licensed for free use upon installation. Key Features and Limitations

VMware ESXi 8 is again available as a free download. Although Broadcom initially discontinued the free version in early 2024, it was reinstated with the release of in April 2025. How to Download VMware ESXi 8 Free

While a free version of the hypervisor does exist, it is no longer marketed as a standalone "Free Edition" with a perpetual key as it was in previous years (e.g., ESXi 6.7 or 7.0). Instead, it is now accessed primarily through a , or as part of the VMware vSphere Foundation bundles.

: Accept the terms and conditions to enable the download link for the ESXi ISO image. Key Features and Restrictions