(x86 only): Verify that your system supports PXE.

If you want to install an x86 based system over the network, confirm that your machine can use PXE to boot without local boot media.

If your x86 based system does not support PXE, you must boot the system from a local DVD or CD.

Check your hardware manufacturer's documentation or the system BIOS.

Choose an installation method.

The Solaris OS provides several methods for installation or upgrade. Choose the installation method that is most appropriate for your environment.

Gather information about your system.

Use the checklist and complete the worksheet to collect all of the information that you need to install or upgrade.

(Optional) Preconfigure system information.

You can preconfigure system information to avoid being prompted for the information during the installation or upgrade.

Create an install server.

Use the setup_install_server(1M) command to copy the Solaris DVD to the install server's hard disk.

(Optional) Create boot servers.

If you want to install systems from the network that are not on the same subnet as the install server, you must create a boot server on the subnet to boot the systems. Use the setup_install_server command with the -b option to set up a boot server. If you are using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), a boot server is not necessary.

Add systems to be installed from the network.

Use the add_install_client command to set up each system that you want to install from the network. Each system that you want to install needs to find the install server, the boot server if required, and configuration information on the network.

(Optional) Configure the DHCP server.

If you want to use DHCP to provide system configuration and installation parameters, configure the DHCP server, then create the appropriate options and macros for your installation.

Install the system over the network.

Begin the installation by booting the system from the network.