Remote server management cards give IT administrators full control over a server without the need for on-site presence. Through these management cards, all console screen information, keyboard and mouse functionality is exported to a remote session to an IT professional who can be located anywhere in the world.
Advanced management card solutions utilize out-of-band network connectivity to allow full management and control of servers, even if the server is crashed, failing to boot, powered off, or in need of complete operating system installation. All aspects of controlling the server including power cycling, resetting, or BIOS-level management or configuration setting changes can be accomplished remotely.
Management cards can simulate the installation of a CD-ROM over the Internet, allowing full installation or upgrading of a server's operating system by using CD-ROM media that is installed on the remote support provider's computer or server, rather than in the distant computer being managed. This allows remote rebuilds of a server or remote installation of operating system upgrades without the need to touch a server physically.
While most remote server management cards have been targeted for servers located in data centers, the flexibility of having such cards in conventional office environments gives a company's internal IT staff the ability to provide more responsive support, especially after hours, and allows companies that outsource their support to receive a high level of service for nearly any issue.
Examples of Remote Server Management Cards
Progent has experience with a variety of remote server management cards available from reliable vendors. These products include:
With a web browser interface, the IP9001 has all the features needed to manage a server easily from an office or from anywhere that has a connection to the Internet. The protection provided by the IP9001 allows you to make sure that your equipment is always running and secure.
Because eRIC express operates at the BIOS level, server access is available even if the server operating system fails. An integrated modem allows emergency access when the network or Internet is unavailable. The combination of KVM encryption and 256-bit SSLv3/TLSv1 and certification protects servers from unauthorized access.
MegaRAC G4 can control reset and power to the motherboard, as well as read status information through IPMI, allowing the remote to fully manage and monitor the host system. Additionally, the G4 can emulate a Mass Storage Device, such as a floppy, CD-ROM, or hard-drive, making it possible to install programs remotely.
The DRAC is a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) card, with its own processor and memory. The card is powered by the system when the server has power or it can operate from its integrated battery module. In addition, an external power adapter is provided that allows the DRAC to remain powered up when the server is off.
This basic "at-the-server" remote control allows you to stay in control of servers wherever they are located, which results in less downtime, less time spent resolving system issues, and ultimately more time for business priorities.
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