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NOTE: For 1000 MT Desktop Adapters based on the 82540EM controller, you must use IBAUtil.exe for all Boot Agent configuration tasks. |
The Boot Agent is a software product that allows your networked client computer to boot using a program code image supplied by a remote server. PC vendors can implement the Boot Agent to accommodate various environments and protocols.
Implementation Support for the Boot Agent:
Multi-protocol boot ROM code designed for remote booting from Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet Adapters (PXE-only support on 10 Gigabit Ethernet Adapters), as well as LOM implementations.
Complies with the Pre-boot eXecution Environment (PXE) Version 2.1 Specification.
Some versions of the Boot Agent also include support for Remote Program Load (RPL) runtime and loader software.
Important Features Offered by the Boot Agent:
Same user interface for Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet Adapters.
Compliant with the Wired for Management Baseline (WfM) 2.0 specification.
Compatible with legacy boot agent environments that use BOOTP protocol.
Customizable in pre-boot, Windows*, and DOS environments.
When you purchase an WfM-compatible adapter, the product package includes the following items related to the Boot Agent:
A Boot Agent software image integrated into the desktop adapter's flash ROM device. Must be added and enabled to server adapters.
A CD-ROM containing a set of DOS utilities, this online Boot Agent User's Guide, and a readme file.
The Boot Agent operates in a client/server environment. Often, in this environment, one or more servers provide remote boot services to a large number of client computers through a common network. The computer system where the Boot Agent is loaded is considered to be a client with respect to the remote boot capability even if that system acts as a server after the system has finished booting.
An extensive list of hardware and software manufacturers provide products that support remote boot technology, conforming either to the Wired for Management (WfM) specifications or the PXE/ RPL/BOOTP/DHCP protocols. These products are compatible with the Boot Agent and include operating systems and servers, in addition to other boot-related products. For a listing of boot-related products of which is currently aware, perform the following steps:
Last modified on 9/01/06 11:37a Revision 8