How to Create a Custom ESXi ISO Image Using PowerCLI (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you want to integrate custom drivers or updates into your VMware ESXi installation, you’ll need to create a custom ESXi ISO using PowerCLI. This approach gives you more flexibility and ensures your ESXi host includes all the required components right from installation.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to set up PowerCLI, install the right modules, and generate a customized ISO image — all using simple PowerShell commands.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Install the Correct Version of VMware PowerCLI

Before you start, make sure VMware PowerCLI is installed on your system. While version 13 is currently available, it has a few known compatibility issues with Image Builder. Therefore, it’s best to use version 12.7.

To install it, open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command below:

Install-Module -Name VMware.PowerCLI -RequiredVersion 12.7.0.20091289

This will install the stable version of PowerCLI needed to build your custom ESXi ISO.

Step 2: Configure Python Path in PowerCLI

PowerCLI requires a proper Python environment for certain modules to function correctly.
First, ensure Python 3.7 is installed on your system. Then, set the Python path by running this command:

Set-PowerCLIConfiguration -PythonPath <python3.7-directory>\python.exe -Scope User

Replace <python3.7-directory> with your actual Python installation directory (for example, C:\Python37).

Step 3: Install the Compatible VMware Image Builder Module

The VMware.ImageBuilder module is used to build custom ESXi images. However, newer versions may cause errors during image creation.
To avoid issues, uninstall the existing Image Builder module and reinstall version 7.0.3.

Remove Existing Image Builder Module

Run the following command to uninstall:

Get-Module VMware.ImageBuilder | Uninstall-Module -Force

Next, navigate to the ImageBuilder directory and manually remove its contents:

C:\Program Files\WindowsPowerShell\Modules\VMware.ImageBuilder

Install Image Builder Version 7.0.3

After removing the old files, install the compatible version using this command:

Install-Module -Name VMware.ImageBuilder -RequiredVersion 7.0.3.19599828

This ensures you’re working with a stable and supported version for ISO customization.

Step 4: Create a Custom ESXi ISO Image

Now that your PowerCLI environment is set up, you can build a custom ISO image that includes community network drivers or other additional components.

Here’s an example workflow to create a custom ESXi ISO using PowerCLI.

Import Image Builder Module

Import-Module VMware.ImageBuilder

Add Software Depots

Add both the base ESXi image and your custom driver package:

Add-EsxSoftwareDepot .\VMware-ESXi-7.0U2d-18538813-depot.zip
Add-EsxSoftwareDepot .\Net-Community-Driver_1.2.7.0-1vmw.700.1.0.15843807_19480755.zip

Clone and Customize Image Profile

New-EsxImageProfile -CloneProfile "ESXi-7.0U3i-20842708-standard" -name "ESXi-7.0U3i-20842708-standard-customNIC" -vendor "corpit"

Add the Custom Network Driver

Add-EsxSoftwarePackage -ImageProfile "ESXi-7.0U3i-20842708-standard-customNIC" -SoftwarePackage "net-community"

Export the Custom Image to ISO

Export-EsxImageProfile -ImageProfile "ESXi-7.0U3i-20842708-standard-customNIC" -ExportToIso ESXi-7.0U3i-20842708-standard-customNIC.iso -NoSignatureCheck

Once the commands finish executing, your custom ISO image will be created successfully. You can now use it to install ESXi with the integrated drivers and configurations.

Step 5: Verify Your Custom ESXi ISO

After building the ISO, verify it by mounting or booting from it in a virtual environment. Ensure that the new drivers or components you added are detected during installation.

If any issues arise, double-check the version compatibility of PowerCLI, Image Builder, and your driver packages.

FAQs About Creating a Custom ESXi ISO Using PowerCLI

What is PowerCLI used for in VMware?

PowerCLI is a command-line interface that allows VMware administrators to automate and manage vSphere environments efficiently.

Why should I create a custom ESXi ISO?

Creating a custom ESXi ISO using PowerCLI lets you include network or storage drivers that aren’t part of the default ESXi image.

Why is PowerCLI version 12.7 recommended over 13?

Version 13 has known issues with the Image Builder module, which can cause build failures. Version 12.7 is more stable for creating custom images.

Can I add multiple drivers to the custom ISO?

Yes, you can add multiple software depots or driver packages using the Add-EsxSoftwareDepot command.

What should I do if my ISO creation fails?

Check the PowerCLI version, Python path, and module compatibility. If problems persist, refer to the official VMware documentation for troubleshooting tips.

Conclusion

Creating a custom ESXi ISO using PowerCLI gives you full control over your VMware deployment. By following this guide, you’ve installed the correct PowerCLI version, configured your Python path, added the required Image Builder module, and built a functional custom ISO image.

With this process, you can streamline future installations, add necessary drivers, and ensure compatibility across your environment.