BMC, out-of-band, and TPM initial configuration: Quick Reference — System and Server Bring-up (NVIDIA-Certified Professional: AI Infrastructure)

BMC, Out-of-Band, and TPM Initial Configuration – Quick Reference This quick reference covers the essential facts and steps for initial configuration...

BMC, Out-of-Band, and TPM Initial Configuration – Quick Reference

This quick reference covers the essential facts and steps for initial configuration of Baseboard Management Controller (BMC), out-of-band management, and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) in NVIDIA AI infrastructure server bring-up.

Baseboard Management Controller (BMC)

Definition: A specialized microcontroller embedded on the server motherboard that manages the interface between system management software and hardware.
Purpose: Enables remote monitoring, management, and recovery of servers independent of the OS state.
Initial Configuration Steps:
1. Connect to the BMC interface via dedicated management port or shared NIC.
2. Access BMC web interface or command line using default credentials (change immediately).
3. Assign a static IP address or configure DHCP for network accessibility.
4. Set up user accounts and roles with appropriate privileges.
5. Configure alerting and logging parameters for hardware events.
6. Enable secure protocols (e.g., HTTPS, SSH) for management access.
Key Considerations: Firmware version must be current; verify compatibility with server hardware and AI workloads.

Out-of-Band (OOB) Management

Definition: A management channel that operates independently from the main network and operating system, allowing remote access even when the server is powered down or unresponsive.
Common Protocols: IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface), Redfish API.
Configuration Checklist:
1. Ensure physical connection of OOB management port to a dedicated management network.
2. Configure network settings consistent with organizational policies (static IP recommended).
3. Test connectivity and access using IPMItool or Redfish clients.
4. Set up secure authentication and encryption mechanisms.
5. Integrate with centralized management platforms if applicable.
Security Note: Restrict access to OOB interfaces to trusted personnel and networks to prevent unauthorized control.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

Definition: A hardware-based security chip that provides cryptographic functions to secure hardware through integrated cryptographic keys.
Role in AI Infrastructure: Ensures platform integrity, secure boot, and encryption key protection.
Initial Setup Steps:
1. Verify TPM presence and version (TPM 2.0 recommended).
2. Enable TPM in server BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Initialize TPM and clear any existing ownership.
4. Set TPM owner password and configure access policies.
5. Integrate TPM with OS security features (e.g., BitLocker, secure boot).
Best Practices: Document TPM credentials securely; avoid resetting TPM without proper backup to prevent data loss.

Summary Checklist

Change default BMC and OOB management passwords immediately.
Assign static IPs for management interfaces to ensure consistent access.
Keep firmware for BMC and TPM updated to latest stable releases.
Test remote access and alerting functions before deploying servers into production.
Secure management networks physically and logically to prevent unauthorized access.

For detailed procedures and troubleshooting, consult the official NVIDIA AI Infrastructure documentation and server vendor manuals.

More in this topic

Ready to test your knowledge?

Put what you've learned into practice with a quick quiz and track your progress.

Test your knowledge →