ESXi 7.0 Update 3

Verified Cisco custom images for are primarily hosted on the Broadcom Support Portal , which replaced the legacy VMware Customer Connect site. You can also find specific software and hardware-bound images directly through Cisco Software Downloads . Official Download Methods Broadcom Support Portal (Primary Method)

Q2: What if I accidentally downloaded an unsigned (hacked) image?

A: ESXi 7.0 U3 will refuse to install unsigned VIBs. An error like “VIB acceptance level not met” appears. Always trust the official hash.

1. Digitally Signed by Cisco: The .iso file contains a digital signature from Cisco Systems. VMware’s Image Builder accepts only Cisco-signed VIBs (vSphere Installation Bundles).
2. Tested on Reference Platforms: Cisco runs this specific ISO through a regression suite on B200 M5/M6, C220 M5/M6, and HyperFlex nodes.
3. VMware Acceptance Level: The image has a VMwareCertified or PartnerSupported acceptance level. This ensures the VIBs have passed VMware’s security scanning.

Critical Note:

As of ESXi 7.0 U3, Cisco images require FIPS-compliant signatures. Do not download from third-party torrents or unverified mirrors.

Part 2: Official Sources – Where to Download the Cisco Custom Image for ESXi 7.0 U3