If you haven't yet purchased the computers that you want to manage out of band with Configuration Manager 2007 SP1 and later, decide whether you need a customized firmware image from your computer manufacturer.

Note
The information in this topic applies only to Configuration Manager 2007 SP1 and later.

Computers that can be managed out of band have BIOS extensions that can include options such as enabling serial over LAN and IDE redirection and that can set values such as a certificate thumbprint of a root certification authority that is used during the AMT provisioning process.

Check which BIOS extension settings are available from your computer manufacturer, and decide whether you need a customized image to enable or disable options and specify your choice of values.

Some typical examples of why you might need a customized firmware image include the following:

If you think you might benefit from a customized firmware image, discuss the available BIOS extensions with your computer manufacturer or supplier.

See Also