Management Controller iSCSI Boot via Remote Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional iSCSI boot processes require a LAN on motherboard (LOM) device and additional firmware, which can be costly and require extensive customization and testing, and may not support later firmware installations.
Innovation Solution
An information handling system and method that supports iSCSI boot processes through a local management controller, enabling access to an initial OS image from an iSCSI target, loading it into host memory, and using an iSCSI initiator to access a second OS image, without relying on a LOM device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a LOM device and additional firmware are used to support iSCSI boot processes, then iSCSI boot functionality is achieved, but hardware and software development costs increase and extensive customization and testing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The management controller is configured to load and execute an iSCSI boot firmware image from an iSCSI target, enabling the system to perform iSCSI boot operations using existing management controller resources rather than requiring dedicated LOM-based iSCSI boot firmware. This self-service approach allows the management controller to provide iSCSI boot functionality without additional specialized hardware or firmware.
Solution Approach 2:
The management controller, which already provides out-of-band management capabilities, is extended to also support iSCSI boot operations. By making the management controller multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate LOM-based iSCSI boot support, reducing hardware complexity and development costs while maintaining reliable iSCSI boot functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If LOM-based iSCSI boot support is implemented, then iSCSI boot capability is provided, but extensive customization and testing are required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of implementing custom LOM-based iSCSI boot firmware that requires extensive customization and testing, the system copies the iSCSI boot firmware image from a remote iSCSI target to local storage during the boot process. This allows the management controller to execute the iSCSI boot firmware without requiring pre-integration or customization, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and testing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the management controller download and store the iSCSI boot firmware image from the iSCSI target before the actual boot process. This preliminary loading of the firmware image enables the system to boot using standard management controller execution capabilities rather than requiring pre-configured LOM-based iSCSI boot support.
3Reliability
If LOM-based iSCSI boot support is used, then iSCSI boot functionality is achieved, but firmware installation flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, pre-configured LOM-based iSCSI boot firmware model to a dynamic model where the management controller can load and execute iSCSI boot firmware images from remote iSCSI targets at runtime. This dynamic approach allows flexible firmware updates and installations without requiring hardware changes or extensive reconfiguration, improving both adaptability and maintaining functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a host including a central processing unit, a management controller enabled to communicate with the host, a network interface resource in communication with the host and operable to enable the information handling system to communicate via an external network, and a target system in communication with the host through the network interface resource. The management controller comprises an iSCSI initiator operable to generate a request to the target system for an initial OS image.