Cold Booting Server – Required PDU Type for IP KVM

keyboard-video-mousepower-distribution-unit

If I get an IP KVM, what type of Power Distribution Unit (PDU) would I need in order to perform cold boots of a server? Would I need a switched type of PDU or will any PDU be okay?

I am looking for a cheap solution so that I can reboot a single server at a remote location.

Best Answer

You have 3 options to cold boot a server remotely:

  1. A IP, managed(Switched) PDU that can turn the power outlets on / off
  2. A Remote Management Card in the server(DRAC, Lights Out, etc)
  3. A local set of hands

The remote management card will provide both your power control, and remote KVM functionality. If you have equipment that does not offer remote management, a switched/managed PDU is the way to go.

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