(free for lab use):
Instead of ESXi 6.5, consider (free trial) or VMware Fusion for virtualization on a PC, or Proxmox VE (open source) for a modern, supported Type-1 hypervisor. If you must learn vSphere legacy features, ESXi 6.7 is slightly less outdated (EOS Oct 2024) but still risky.
– the file is ~350–400 MB.
Search for and select the version dropdown for 6.5 .
: Those with specific hardware, like Dell PowerEdge servers, often detoured to the Dell Support site to download customized images pre-loaded with critical drivers for their specific machines. Preparing the Vessel esxi 6.5 download
Since the acquisition of VMware by Broadcom, the download portal has migrated.
When viewing the download list for ESXi 6.5, you will see several files. It is important to choose the correct one: (free for lab use): Instead of ESXi 6
If you do not have active licensing, the standard hypervisor may show as "Not Entitled". 2. Hardware-Specific Custom ISOs (Free & Legal)