Project Overview
The goal of project is to make a PXE-boot server to serve a variety of COSI uses. Basically what a PXE (pronounced pixie) boot server does, is when client computers boot, they reference the setting on the network card. The client machines will have their network cards configured to connect to the server to pull a boot image. Some major benefits that having a PXE boot server over "ghosting" machines individually or even over the network is that when the computer boots, it pulls a fresh image from the server. This also allows changes to the image to be made rapidly.
Project Compoments
- Server (Dell Computer)
- Dual Network Cards
- Client computers
- a network switch
Steps (to date)
- Find a computer to use as a server (harder than it sounds)
- Get an OS on the computer
- Do more research on other who have successfully completed a PXE boot server
Problems
A major problem that I had which prevented me from starting my project on time was being granted access to use a particular computer for the server. I did not get permission to use the computer until later in the semester which as significantly pushed back my project.
Current Status
As of right now, the server is not functioning as a successful boot server but it's in the works.
Where From Here?
I will continue working on the boot server both over break and thoughout next semester.
What I've Learned
Other than persistence when trying to ascertain equipment, I've learned (learning) different methods of creating images, configuring network cards, and researching different setups of PXE boot servers.
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