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Thank you for choosing Managed PC Boot Agent (MBA), the world's best-selling network
preboot solution for PC networks. MBA is a package of multi-protocol firmware and software
tools that enables the network administrator to remotely administer software, operating
systems, and applications over the network, eliminating the need to visit the client's desktop
in person. MBA is a universal, easy to configure preboot solution that is compatible with
today's client and network operating systems.
With MBA installed, your client PCs can boot from the network regardless of the contents of
their local hard drives or, in some cases, without any local drives at all. MBA makes sure
your users connect to the network every time.
It's true—You can't compute if you can't boot.
MBA enables new and existing PCs to take advantage of preboot management technology to
perform operating system and application installations or upgrades as well as desktop
disaster recovery. MBA includes the Wired for Management (WfM) standard PXE protocol, but
goes beyond that to include legacy boot protocol support for networks such as NetWare and
UNIX. MBA is the most universal, pervasive preboot solution available on the market today.
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To take advantage of current and emerging Managed PC applications, companies need PCs
that can cooperate in the management process. These PCs have management-ready network
interface cards (NICs) with functions implemented in firmware, software, and hardware.
While some features are applicable only to newer PCs, many can be implemented on existing
PCs through a software download, flash ROM update or ROM upgrade.
In selecting management-ready PC NICs, companies can smooth the transition to a
centrally-managed environment by choosing products that support the widest range of
industry-standard protocols, existing network administration services and tools, and
management applications. Wise choices will also help to future-proof investments for what is
sure to be a period of emerging technology developments and rapid change.
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3Com, the world's leading supplier of desktop and workgroup networking solutions, offers a
full range of Managed PC features for Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Token Ring product lines.
These products offer consumers a unique advantage: state-of-the-art management
intelligence built into industry-leading 3Com NICs, which are known for their performance,
reliability, and compatibility.
3Com's Managed PC solutions are compatible with leading management applications,
including those from Microsoft, ON Technology Corporation, HP, Tivoli, Platinum
Technologies, Network Associates, and Intel. 3Com NICs support new and emerging
standards including Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE), Desktop Management Interface
(DMI), Wired for Management (WfM), and Advanced Configuration and Power Interface
(ACPI).
Currently, 3Com's product line supports three key network management capabilities: Remote
Wake Up, Managed PC Boot Agent for remote preboot capabilities, and Desktop Management
Interface 2.05 for advanced instrumentation discovery and configuration.