network boot（Network Boot A Comprehensive Guide）

Network Boot: A Comprehensive Guide

In the world of computing, booting refers to the process of loading the operating system into the memory of a computer system. This is typically done by turning on the power button of the computer or restarting it after shut down. Traditional booting involves loading the operating system from a local storage device such as a hard drive, disk or USB drive. However, in recent years, network booting has become increasingly popular owing to its many advantages over local booting.

What is Network Booting?

Network booting, also known as PXE booting, is the process of booting a computer system directly from a network without the need for a local storage device. In network booting, a server stores the operating system and all the necessary files and services required during the boot process. This allows the client computer to boot directly from the server, which is known as a Remote Installation Server (RIS), using a network adapter instead of a hard drive or other local storage device.

Network booting has many advantages over traditional local booting. For example, network booting simplifies the deployment of new computers in an organization, since it is possible to install or set up the new computers remotely without the need for physical access to them. In addition, network booting allows for centralized management of all bootable images, which can be easily updated and deployed across all computers in an organization.

The Process of Network Booting

The process of network booting involves several steps. The first step is to set up a Remote Installation Service (RIS) on the server that will be used as the boot source. This involves configuring the server to support PXE booting and installing the operating system and other services required for booting.

Next, the client computer must be configured to boot from the network adapter instead of the local storage device. This is done by modifying the BIOS settings of the client computer. In the BIOS settings, the boot order must be changed so that the network adapter is set as the first boot device. This allows the computer to boot directly from the network adapter when powered on or restarted.

Once the client computer is configured to boot from the network adapter, it can be booted remotely from the server. During the boot process, the client computer sends a request to the RIS server for the necessary boot files and services. The server then sends the required files and services over the network to the client computer, which allows the operating system to be loaded into the computer's memory and the boot process to proceed as usual.

Conclusion

Network booting is a powerful tool that offers many benefits to organizations looking to simplify their computer deployment process and centralize the management of their bootable images. Although the process of setting up a network boot environment can be complex, it is well worth the effort for organizations that are looking to streamline their computing infrastructure and gain more control over their bootable images. With the right tools and knowledge, anyone can set up a powerful network boot environment that can provide a solid foundation for their organization's computing needs.