Editing XML Files

biosconfig enables you to configure settings across multiple similar servers using a common XML configuration file. However, if the configuration that is being modified includes a peripheral or component that is not on both systems, then you need to customize the XML file. The BIOS firmware of systems you are exporting from or importing to does not have to be at the same version.

Note:

The XML tag definitions are determined by the current system BIOS. These values can vary by system type and it is not recommended that you use the XML file to update the BIOS configuration across different system types.

The biosconfig command can be used to get current configuration settings or set configuration settings. When used to get configuration settings, biosconfig generates XML output showing the configuration. When used to set configuration settings, biosconfig reads XML input describing the configuration settings.

Caution:

Do not use biosconfig to change BIOS settings that are not visible in the normal BIOS setup menu.

To use biosconfig, you must have a working knowledge of XML file editing. The process of editing the BIOS includes using biosconfig to do the following tasks:

1. To obtain the BIOS configuration settings in XML, type:

   # biosconfig -get_option filename.xml

   If an XML file name is specified with the get command, the BIOS configuration is saved to the XML file. If an XML file is not specified, the output is written to the terminal.

2. Review the XML file and modify it, as required.

   You can modify the XML files in a editor of your choice, such as vi.

3. To implement the changes, type:

   # biosconfig -set_option filename.xml

   You can use the same XML file to modify multiple systems of the same type.