Install Secure Web Appliance on VMware Esxi

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Updated:October 23, 2026

Document ID:222580

Bias-Free Language

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Introduction

Prerequisites

Requirements

Components Used

VMware ESXi

Download the Image

Installing SWA Setup

RelatedContent

Introduction

This document describes the steps required to install the Secure Web Appliance (SWA) on VMware ESXi.

Prerequisites

Requirements

Cisco recommends that you have knowledge of these topics:

SWA administration.
Fundamental networking principles.
VMware ESXi administration.

Cisco recommends that you have:

VMware ESXi Installed.
Administrative Access to the VMware ESXi.
Valid Cisco Account to Download the SWA Image file.

Components Used

This document is not restricted to specific software and hardware versions.

The information in this document was created from the devices in a specific lab environment. All of the devices used in this document started with a cleared (default) configuration. If your network is live, ensure that you understand the potential impact of any command.

VMware ESXi

VMware ESXi is a high-performance, enterprise-class hypervisor developed by VMware that allows for the efficient creation and management of virtual machines directly on physical hardware. As a bare-metal hypervisor, ESXi operates without the need for an underlying operating system, resulting in streamlined performance and enhanced resource utilization. This makes it an ideal platform for hosting various types of virtualized applications and services, providing a stable and secure environment for enterprise IT infrastructure.

This article guides you through the step-by-step process of installing Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) on VMware ESXi. Cisco WSA is a comprehensive web security solution designed to protect organizations from a wide range of internet-based threats by monitoring and controlling web traffic. The detailed guide covers everything from the initial setup of the ESXi environment to the configuration of Cisco WSA, ensuring that your network is safeguarded with advanced web security capabilities. Whether you are new to virtualization or an experienced IT professional, this guide provides the necessary steps to successfully deploy Cisco WSA on ESXi.