HPE rigorously tests the 6.7 U3 build on their ProLiant Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus servers. Using this image ensures you are running a (not just Compatible) configuration, reducing the risk of purple diagnostic screens (PSOD).
HPE highly recommends booting ESXi from dedicated, high-endurance media rather than traditional spinning disks.
This is the best method for existing installations where you cannot reboot.
: Choose the 6.7 major release from the dropdown menu. vmware esxi 67 u3 hpe custom image download best
Before burning your ISO to a bootable drive or mounting it via the HPE iLO (Integrated Lights-Out) virtual media console, you must verify the file integrity. Corruption during large downloads can cause silent failures mid-installation.
: Note that December 2019 and March 2020 images for 6.7 U3 are specifically not compatible with HPE Synergy systems. Use the dedicated OS Support tool for HPE Synergy to find the correct version. Key Image Versions
Always download the latest spin of the HPE Custom Image for 6.7 U3. HPE released subsequent versions (e.g., updates in 2021 and 2022) that patched critical drivers for Smart Array controllers, protecting against data corruption bugs found in earlier 6.7 variants. Best Practices for Deployment HPE rigorously tests the 6
Select the latest build – ensure Image type, not just patch bundle.
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ HPE OEM Customized ISO │ ├──────────────────────────────┬──────────────────────────────┤ │ Base VMware ESXi Kernel │ HPE ProLiant Active Health │ │ (Core Hypervisor Engine) │ Drivers & CIM Providers │ ├──────────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────┤ │ Smart Array (nhpsa/smartpqi)│ Agentless Management │ │ Storage Controller Drivers │ Service (AMS) Daemons │ └──────────────────────────────┴──────────────────────────────┘
Compare the SHA256 checksum listed on the Broadcom download page with your downloaded file. You can run this quick command in a standard terminal: powershell This is the best method for existing installations
vmware -vl esxcli system stats installtime get esxcli software vib list | grep -i hpe
To resolve certain upgrade issues, you may need to upgrade to the October 2020 or January 2020 HPE ESXi 6.7 U3 Custom Image first before proceeding to newer versions.
You may need an active HPE support contract or warranty entitlement to download directly. However, HPE often allows public downloads for legacy images like 6.7 U3.
Before running the ESXi installer, flash your server hardware using the matching HPE SPP bootable ISO. Drivers inside the custom ESXi image expect a minimum corresponding firmware level to operate reliably.