Intel® vPro™ and Intel® Centrino® Pro Processor Technology Quick Start Guide

Step 2: Verify Intel vPro Client Windows Drivers

The following Intel AMT drivers, which are digitally signed by Intel and compatible with Microsoft Windows* operating systems (including Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista*), are required on the Intel vPro client platform. Obtain these drivers from your client system manufacturer’s driver and download support pages (most client drivers and Intel MEBx updates are contained on the same support web page by the OEM).

Intel Management Engine Interface (Intel MEI) driver -- Provides a secure local communications interface between the host operating system and the Intel ME via the Intel MEI.

Serial-over-LAN (SoL) driver -- Enables a COM port for VT100 or ANSI remote sessions prior to graphic interface when the operating system loads. You can view and send commands to a remote client prior to the operating system loading, including entering into the BIOS, viewing POST, etc.

Local Management Service (LMS) driver –Provides an interface enabling local management software agents to communicate with the Intel Management Engine using the same high-level protocols as those used for remote management (e.g. XML, SOAP). When first loaded, the driver will cause a pop-up to occur to confirm that Intel AMT is running. The pop-up can be disabled. As the Intel AMT firmware is updated, this driver is most likely to require a coordinated update as new features are enabled. The driver also checks for consistency of the Intel AMT hostname and the operating system host name.

It is recommended that the LANDesk client agent also be installed, although it is not required. Discovery of the Intel vPro machine will differ depending on whether the client agent is installed. See Step 5: Discover Intel vPro Clients through the Management Console on page 27 for further information.

Step 3: Set Intel vPro Password and TLS mode in Management Console

The Intel vPro features included in LANDesk System Manager (LSM) are now built into LANDesk Management Suite (LDMS) 8.8. This is a change from LDMS 8.7 where both LDMS and LMS were required for full Intel vPro functionality. LDMS 8.8 supports all Intel vPro features including System Defense and Agent Presence. LDMS 8.8 also supports both the wired and wireless functionality of systems based on Intel® Centrino® 2 with vPro™ technology.

Two pieces of information are required for Intel vPro in LANDesk: a password to access the Intel MEBx, where Intel vPro configuration information is set; and the management network traffic security setting, either TLS (secured) or non-TLS (unsecured).

To ensure Intel vPro support in your management console, do the following:

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Intel Centrino Pro Verify Intel vPro Client Windows Drivers, Set Intel vPro Password and TLS mode in Management Console

Centrino Pro, vPro specifications

Intel vPro and Centrino Pro are advanced technologies designed to enhance business computing environments, providing a blend of performance, security, and manageability. These technologies are specifically aimed at IT professionals and organizations looking to streamline their operations and protect sensitive data.

Intel vPro technology is built for today’s enterprise needs, incorporating a set of hardware and software features that allow for advanced security, remote management, and increased performance. One of the core features of Intel vPro is its Hardware Shield, which provides security at the firmware level, helping to protect against threats before they even reach the operating system. This feature enhances the overall security posture of devices while enabling IT departments to respond more effectively to potential threats.

Another prominent aspect of Intel vPro is its remote management capabilities, which include Intel Active Management Technology (AMT). AMT allows IT administrators to manage devices even when they are powered off or have a corrupted operating system. This capability significantly reduces downtime and improves productivity, as IT support can troubleshoot and resolve issues remotely without needing physical access to the machine.

Centrino Pro, on the other hand, focuses on delivering performance and power efficiency for mobile computing. It integrates Wi-Fi capabilities with advanced security features, enabling users to stay connected securely while on the move. Centrino Pro technology includes Intel's power management capabilities, which optimize battery life and enhance the performance of mobile devices.

The combination of Intel vPro and Centrino Pro offers features like Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT), which helps to protect virtual machines and sensitive data from attacks. Additionally, these technologies support enhanced multitasking capabilities, powered by Intel's robust processors, ensuring that business applications run smoothly and efficiently.

Both Intel vPro and Centrino Pro are designed with scalability in mind, allowing organizations to easily deploy and manage multiple devices across various locations. This scalability is an essential characteristic for businesses that require flexibility in their IT infrastructure without compromising performance or security.

In summary, Intel vPro and Centrino Pro represent a powerful suite of technologies tailored for enterprise environments. With features focused on security, remote management, and efficient mobile computing, they help organizations optimize their IT strategies and foster a secure and productive workplace.