PXE
Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE) enables network-based booting and automated OS installation, streamlining deployment and management of large-scale computer fleets.
PXE is a standardized protocol that allows computers to boot and install operating systems directly from a network server, eliminating the need for local installation media. Widely used in enterprise and data center environments, PXE simplifies mass deployment and maintenance of systems.
During PXE boot, a client obtains an IP address via DHCP and downloads a boot loader and OS image from a PXE server using TFTP. Administrators can customize PXE menus to offer multiple OS options or diagnostic tools, supporting diverse deployment scenarios.
PXE centralizes management, reduces time and cost for OS installations, and ensures consistency across devices. It is essential for scalable, automated provisioning in environments with many computers or frequent reimaging needs.
Alternatives include manual installation or using removable media, but these methods are less efficient and harder to manage at scale.