ESXi 5.5 introduced the ability to create virtual disks (VMDKs) larger than 2 TB, capping out at 62 TB. It utilized updated VMFS-5 file structures, removing the need to chain multiple smaller disks together for large database structures. Improved Graphics Support
Server manufacturers like Dell, HPE, and IBM generated customized ESXi 5.5 ISOs containing specialized storage and network drivers. These are occasionally archived on the respective hardware manufacturer's support portals under legacy server models (e.g., PowerEdge R720 or ProLiant DL380 Gen8).
Use Rufus to write the ISO image to a USB flash drive. Physical Media: Burn the ISO to a CD/DVD. 2. Install on Hardware Insert the bootable media and boot the server. Select the installation option.
For lab or educational use, some users turn to the Internet Archive's VMware ISO Software Archive to find legacy installers. Key Specifications and Requirements
Navigating the collection, installation, and deployment of a deprecated hypervisor requires careful attention to licensing, hardware constraints, and security. The Current State of ESXi 5.5 Downloads vmware esxi 5.5 iso download
If you download from any source, always verify the checksum to ensure the ISO has not been tampered with.
Once you have secured the verified ISO image, use this process to install the hypervisor. Step 1: Prepare the Installation Media
Unlike newer versions that use an HTML5 web portal hosted directly on the machine, ESXi 5.5 relies heavily on the legacy, Windows-only application.
If you are starting a new project, consider using a supported version. The upgrade path from ESXi 5.5 is straightforward: The first step in the upgrade path. ESXi 5
Mount the downloaded ESXi 5.5 ISO directly via the menu.
Once you have secured the ISO, the installation process generally follows these steps:
Once the ISO is downloaded, convert it into a bootable format. Option A: USB Flash Drive (Recommended) Download a tool like . Insert a USB drive (minimum 4 GB). Select the ESXi 5.5 ISO within Rufus.
What (e.g., Dell R720, HPE Gen8) are you installing this on? These are occasionally archived on the respective hardware
Because Broadcom has overhauled the VMware licensing and download infrastructure, standard trial or free download links for vSphere 5.5 are no longer active on the main VMware website. Broadcom Customer Support Portal
Before downloading and installing ESXi 5.5, ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements:
. Since Broadcom acquired VMware, the download process for older versions has changed significantly. endoflife.date Official Download Methods Broadcom now centralizes all VMware downloads through the Broadcom Support Portal Broadcom Support Portal
You will notice the hypervisor is in a after installation. To use the free version of ESXi 5.5 (officially called "vSphere Hypervisor"), you must apply a free license key.
3. Community and Alternative Repositories (Caution Required)
Use a utility like to burn the ISO image to a USB flash drive. Open Rufus and select your target USB drive. Choose Disk or ISO image and select your ESXi 5.5 ISO.