IA: How to Boot a System Over the Network

Any system can boot over the network if there is a boot server available. You might want to boot a standalone system over the network temporarily if it cannot boot from the local disk.

The new menu, Set Network Configuration Strategy, on the Configuration Assistant's Boot Tasks Menu, enables you to select the appropriate boot strategy.

1. Determine whether you want to boot over the network using the RARP/bootparams method or the DHCP method.

   There are two network configuration strategies to choose from, RARP (Reverse Address Resolution Protocol) or DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). The default network boot strategy is set to RARP. You can use either one depending on whether a RARP or DHCP boot server is available in your network.

2. Insert the Configuration Assistant Boot Diskette or the Installation CD you wish to boot from.

3. Press any key to reboot the system if the system displays the Type any key to reboot prompt. You can also use the reset button at this prompt. If the system is shut down, turn the system on with the power (on/off) switch.

4. Press F2_Continue at the Solaris Device Configuration Assistant screen to scan for devices.

   Device identification is performed and a screen that displays the identified devices appears.

5. Press F2_Continue at the Identified Devices screen to load drivers.

   Bootable drivers are loaded.

6. Press F4_Boot Tasks from the Boot Solaris menu.

7. Select Set Network Configuration Strategy and press F2_Continue.

8. Select either RARP or DHCP and press F2_Continue.

   A screen that confirms your new network configuration strategy appears.

   Your network configuration strategy selection is saved as the default network boot method the next time this diskette is used for booting.

9. Press F3_Back to return to the Boot Solaris menu.

10. Select NET as the boot device from the Boot Solaris menu. Then press F2_Continue to boot the network device.

    The Solaris boot option screen is displayed.