When using this approach, boot servers typically have configuration content that allows them to respond to a set of MAC addresses. For HP-UX servers, the /etc/bootptab file is used to identify the clients to respond to. Listed MAC addresses will receive a response using the client-specific details in the bootptab file. For more information, see Chapter 3 (page 31).

Some non-HP-UX boot servers may be configured to ignore a set of network addresses and respond to others. Note that HP-UX does not support this capability.

NOTE: HP Virtual Connect (VC) network technology allows MAC addresses to be changed via profiles. It is possible to allocate a range of MAC addresses for different boot servers, configure an HP-UX server to manage that block of MAC addresses, and then use profiles to select the boot server. Thus, instead of changing the boot server configuration content, the MAC addresses of a system can be changed with VC profiles to effectively choose the correct boot server.

Control network boot via response timing

Since a client system uses the first network boot response it receives, response timing may be used to help select the boot server. One boot server that responds to any MAC address may be configured to respond only after a delay, while all other servers are configured to respond to specific MAC addresses.

Because a number of factors might influence network boot response timing, and servers might respond more slowly in some cases, this approach has a risk of intermittent failures caused when the delayed server responds first because the delay is set too short.

Care is required in deciding the appropriate response delay. Note that a one-to-two second delay for other boot server responses might be large enough to cause an HP-UX server responding to a specific MAC address to normally win. However, a larger delay of eight seconds or more is recommended. You will need to decide the correct delay for your subnets and servers. These recommendations are intended to emphasize that the delay must not be set to “just large enough to work” based on limited testing.

Install remote clients through a network router

By default, Ignite configures IINSTALLFS configuration content without network routing information. If the Ignite server and depot server are on a remote subnet accessed via gateway, and registered IP addresses are used instead of DHCP, the IINSTALLFS configuration content must include network routing information.

The server keyword specifies the IP address for your Ignite-UX server. It refers to a specific LAN interface on the Ignite-UX server. The same is true for the sd_server keyword that specifies the depot server IP address for any depots needed for installation.

server = "10.2.1.11" sd_server = "10.2.1.11"

54 Complex networks: challenges and solutions

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HP UX System Management Software Control network boot via response timing, Install remote clients through a network router
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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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