13 Automating installations

This chapter shows how to use the bootsys command and configuration files to automate the Ignite-UX installation process.

Starting a non-interactive installation with bootsys

Ignite-UX can install HP-UX on a client noninteractively using the default configuration specified in the /var/opt/ignite/data/INDEX file for the given operating system. The /var/opt/ ignite/data/INDEX file can have a unique clause for each operating system you want to support. Alternatively, you can choose from other configurations that exist as unique clauses in the INDEX file to use with bootsys(1M) from the command line.

To start an automatic, noninteractive installation, execute the bootsys command from the server as follows:

bootsys -a-v[-iconfiguration][-f]client_hostname

-aSpecifies an automatic installation.

-vSpecifies verbose mode.

-iSpecifies a default configuration for installing the client. If not set, the default specified on the Ignite-UX server is used. If an incorrect configuration or one that does not match the last configuration saved for the client is selected and the -foption is not used, an error results.

-fForces Ignite-UX to disregard and delete the previous configuration information that was saved for a client during the last installation.

You can define the default configuration from the Ignite-UX GUI Server Options menu (see “Configuring server options” (page 37)) or you can set it manually with a =TRUE statement immediately following the closing of a cfg clause in the /var/opt/ignite/data/INDEX file.

After you have initiated the installation, Ignite-UX contacts the client and extracts its hostname, IP address, and default gateway. The configuration you specified is installed. After the installation completes, Ignite-UX resets the hostname, IP address and gateway to their original values. This installation configuration is then automatically saved, or overwritten if one exists, for this client and can be reused the next time an installation is needed. For bootsys to function, access to the client using remsh is required; if a remote shell is not available, the bootsys command prompts you for the root password of the client.

A noninteractive installation using bootsys is the quickest way to install a client. You can install a client with a custom configuration using bootsys with the following simple four-step process:

1.Create the configuration files that describe how you want the client to be installed.

2.Save the configuration files that you created.

3.Add a cfg clause to the /var/opt/ignite/data/INDEX file that describes your custom configuration.

4.Execute the bootsys command, specifying the custom configuration.

For more information regarding configuration files, see “Using configuration files” (page 161) and the white paper, Ignite-UX Custom Configuration Files, available at

http://www.hp.com/go/ignite-ux-docs

For details on how to select a configuration, force its use, and use the many other installation options that are available, see bootsys(1M).

Using a saved configuration

After you specify a configuration for a particular client during an installation, you can save the result as a named configuration. This saves any changes that you made during the installation

174 Automating installations

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HP UX System Management Software manual Automating installations, Starting a non-interactive installation with bootsys
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UX System Management Software specifications

HP-UX System Management Software is a robust suite of tools designed to facilitate the administration and management of HP's Unix-based operating system, HP-UX. As organizations increasingly rely on mission-critical applications, the need for a reliable and efficient management solution becomes paramount. HP-UX provides a comprehensive understanding of system performance, resource utilization, and enterprise-wide configuration, all while maintaining high availability and security.

One of the key features of HP-UX System Management Software is its Advanced System Administrator Toolkit. This toolkit includes a wide array of utilities that streamline daily administrative tasks such as monitoring system performance, managing user accounts, and configuring system settings. Tools such as Glance provide real-time monitoring of system resources, enabling administrators to identify bottlenecks and optimize performance.

The software also boasts an advanced security framework, including features such as Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) and Secure Shell (SSH) for secure data transmission. Security patches and updates can be managed through HP’s Service Pack for HP-UX, which provides a streamlined method for maintaining system integrity and compliance with various regulatory standards.

Another notable aspect is the extensive support for virtualization technologies. HP-UX supports HP’s Integrity Virtual Machines (IVMs) and vPars, allowing administrators to create multiple isolated environments on a single physical server. This not only enhances resource utilization but also improves disaster recovery planning by enabling easier backup and restore processes.

For storage management, HP-UX offers tools that enable easy setup and management of Logical Volume Managers (LVM). This allows simplified disk space allocation and management, ensuring that critical applications have the necessary resources without manual intervention.

Furthermore, HP-UX is designed with compatibility in mind, supporting a wide range of third-party applications and frameworks. Integration with management platforms like HP System Insight Manager enhances the ability to monitor and manage systems from a centralized perspective, providing alerts and reports that help in proactive decision-making.

In summary, HP-UX System Management Software delivers a streamlined approach to system administration, focusing on performance, security, and ease of management. Its advanced features, combined with an emphasis on virtualization and storage management, make it a powerful tool for organizations seeking reliability and efficiency in their Unix-based environments. As businesses continue to evolve, tools like HP-UX will remain crucial for ensuring consistent performance and operational excellence.
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