Integrated lights-out
Integrated Lights-Out (iLO) is a proprietary Lights-Out management system developed by Compaq for the administration and remote maintenance of servers . With the takeover of HP , the name Compaq was dropped. The iLO hardware can be connected to the network and the server can be serviced via an additional network interface, which is either located directly on the server board or provided by a plug-in card , regardless of the software on the server and its functionality.
Range of functions
The scope of functions of Lights-Out Management is constantly expanding with each new version. In the first versions, only basic functions such as For example, it is possible to switch the hardware on and off, whereas with current iLO firmware it is already possible to read out temperatures in the housing and the hardware (Sea of Sensors 3D) or to reduce / limit power consumption ( power capping ). In addition to the standard iLO, which is usually already included in the HPE servers, a license key for iLO Advanced can be purchased, which unlocks additional functions.
It is thus possible to switch the server on and off via the network and to manage the respective system board. Depending on the server system, the BIOS and the controller can be configured individually. Tools for system diagnostics are also provided. With the "Sea of Sensors" it is possible to read out temperatures and other hardware parameters. The power capping, if supported by the device, as well as the KVM functionality, with which the mouse, keyboard and screen of the remote server are mapped locally, are provided. Complete remote server management can be implemented using the iLO Advanced, which is subject to a license. Using a Java applet or a stand-alone application for Windows systems, it is possible to integrate CD-ROM drives or ISO images over the network using a local screen, keyboard and mouse. This allows a server to be installed entirely over the network.
This has the following advantages:
The servers can be wired clearly and in a structured manner. In addition, the KVM switches previously required can be saved. Settings can be made centrally on the system board. Server monitoring and error diagnosis are possible without physical access to the system. A management network that is separate from the actual network can be connected via a second network card.
However, there are also disadvantages:
The iLO system, which is equipped with its own network card (NIC), can be connected to the system and make its own network card available to it in a "shared process". An additional NIC can be reserved for the operating system. Errors that occur, such as when the iLO intercepts NFS packets, cannot be correctly diagnosed without spending a lot of time. Therefore this type of configuration is not recommended. Any security gaps in the iLO can be exploited to intercept or influence service services that run on network cards. When using this solution you have to be aware that you are committed to the products of the manufacturer HP. Alternative standards such as the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) offer identical application options across manufacturers.
iLO Mobile App
Since iLO version 3, it is possible to use a smartphone app instead of the web interface . The corresponding application is currently available for Apple iOS and Android smartphones / tablets.
Web links
Individual evidence
- ↑ a b Dynamic Power Capping Supported Servers ( Memento of the original from December 28, 2011 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was automatically inserted and not yet checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice.
- ↑ a b c Product Overview ( Memento from April 10, 2016 in the Internet Archive ) March 29, 2012
