Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) Boot Server
A Preboot Execution Environment (PXE), often pronounced as "pixie" or "pixie reboot," is a client-server interface that enables the computers in a network to be booted from a server.
Using PXE boot, the OS can directly be loaded into the computers from a server instead of a CD or hard disk. Additionally, PXE ensures faster and more seamless installation of operating systems across multiple computers, simplifying mass OS deployments.
What is Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)?
Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) allows computers to boot over a network instead of local storage. It enables simultaneous network booting of multiple devices using a DHCP server within a Local Area Network (LAN).
How does PXE boot work?
Before initiating a PXE boot, the DHCP server must have Scope Options 66 and 67 configured. Refer to this document for configuration steps. Once the client receives an IP address, the PXE boot process begins.
DHCP configuration process for PXE
- The client sends a 'discover' packet requesting network configuration. This packet is received by the DHCP server.
- The DHCP server replies with an 'offer' packet containing IP address, subnet mask, and network parameters.
How is PXE used?
PXE is primarily used to boot systems using network-based installation rather than physical storage devices. It supports both physical and virtual systems, including Windows and Linux environments.
The PXE client requests network configurations from a DHCP server and retrieves boot files from a TFTP server to initiate OS installation or diagnostic tasks remotely.
PXE offers several benefits:
- Rapid deployment of OS across multiple systems over a network.
- Quick disaster recovery through automated imaging and restoration.
- Remote troubleshooting and diagnostics.
PXE Boot Process
- The DHCP server sends the PXE client the Boot Server IP (Option 66) and Boot Filename (Option 67).
- The PXE client requests boot files from the PXE server.
- The PXE server sends the boot files through TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol).
- DHCP Options 66 and 67 can be configured under scope or server options to load the boot files for the client computer.
Prerequisites for PXE Boot
The following components are required for a seamless PXE boot process:
- DHCP Server
- PXE Server (automatically installed by OS Deployer)
- PXE bootable media (created and published to remote offices)
- Ensure UDP ports 0—65535 are available for PXE file transfers and firewall exclusions are configured.
PXE Server in OS Deployer
OS Deployer supports PXE servers for network-based booting and OS deployment. The PXE boot server runs as a Windows Service named ManageEngine OS Deployer PXE Server.
How to create a PXE bootable media using OS Deployer?
To create a PXE bootable media:
- Navigate to Deployment → Create Bootable Media, select PXE, and click Create Bootable Media.
- Enter the media name, choose the WinPE tool, specify the installation location, select drivers, and click Create Bootable Media.
- Once created, the PXE bootable media will be available for deployment tasks.
Watch the video below for detailed steps to create a PXE bootable media:
Frequently Asked Questions
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