Service processor connection for integrated servers

This physical connection is required so that the hosting IBM® i partition can communicate with the service processor of the initiator (System x or BladeCenter) system.

The connection can consist of a simple and switched network or a more complex and routed network. IBM i Integrated Server Support uses this connection to manage the state of the hosted system.

At one end of the connection is a LAN adapter or adapters that are controlled by IBM i. This LAN adapter can be available for other uses. The IP address and other attributes of this adapter are controlled using standard IBM i configuration methods. IBM i can automatically connect to the service processor using one or more IBM i TCP interfaces that are already configured.

At the other end of the connection is the service processor. The service processor has its own Ethernet port and TCP/IP stack. This TCP/IP stack is active whenever the system power cord is plugged into an energized alternating current (AC) outlet, even if the system is not in a powered on state.

Connection

There are multiple options that IBM i offers for connecting to the service processor. For more information, see Service processor connection methods.

Performance and maximum transmission unit (MTU)

There is not a requirement or advantage to having a high speed network or using a large MTU for the service processor connection.

Security

The security capabilities of your service processor hardware may affect your decision to use an isolated network or a shared network to provide the service processor connection. For more information, see Configuring security between IBM i and integrated servers.