Installing an OS Through IPMI

IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) is a powerful tool for server administrators, allowing remote access to servers as if you were physically present. With IPMI, you can even install an operating system (OS) outside of the standard templates provided by your hosting provider. Here’s how you can install an OS using IPMI:

1. Prerequisites:

   • Ensure you have access to the server’s IPMI interface.
   • You’ll need a local ISO file of the OS you want to install.

2. Accessing IPMI via Java Applet:

   • Open the IPMI interface in a Java applet (you can find this in your hosting provider’s control panel).
   • Click on Device in the menu bar and select Redirect ISO from the dropdown.
   • Choose the ISO file from your local computer.
   • Reboot the server by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del.
   • Access the boot options (you might need to use the soft keyboard within IPMI).
   • Select UEFI Virtual CDROM 1.00 from the boot menu to start the server from the attached ISO.
   • Follow the steps to install the OS.
   • Don’t forget to remove the ISO from the Redirect ISO option.

3. Using IPMI v2 (Java):

   • Similar to the previous step, open IPMI in a Java applet.
   • Click on Virtual Media and select Virtual Storage.
   • Choose ISO File from the Logical Drive Type dropdown.
   • Load your ISO file by clicking Open Image.
   • Click Plug in and then OK.
   • Access the BIOS to switch boot options by selecting Power Control and clicking Set Power Reset.
   • Again, use the soft keyboard if needed.

Remember that installing an OS via IPMI should be done by experienced server administrators, and OVHcloud does not guarantee the functionality of any OS installed this way¹². Happy server configuring!