Differences found between "identical" E1G42ET server adapters

[AKbpc]

We have been using E1G42ET server adapters for a long while, and had no issues with the products they go into, until recently. Some of the adapters seem to have different default firmware settings which cause issues for us. 

By default, server adapters should have Intel Boot Agent disabled:

https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000005626/ethernet-products.html

We clearly see that one some of these cards, Intel Boot Agent appears, giving an error about AHCI BIOS not installed (It is disabled). Besides needing to disable this, the concern is what other differences might be present that we don't know about. 

The same firmware version as normal adapters is listed as present when using ethtool (1.2.1). 

Ultimately I have two questions:

1. What is the correct/best way to fully disable Intel Boot Agent (ie, what commands/process using BootUtil or other utility. Can this be done through the Ctrl+S setup menu, etc.?)

2. Is there an easy way to list all settings present in firmware to check for any differences?

Thanks for any and all help!

[Faez_Intel · Accepted solution]

Hi Andrew,

Good day and thank you for contacting Intel Customer Support.

You may follow the guide provided in the link you've given in order to disable the Intel Boot Agent. The process can be done in the Ctrl+S menu to configure the IBA whether it is enabled or disabled. You can also use the BootUtil.exe to have a better view of which IBA features that you would like to disable.

However, please do note that some OEM manufacturers may not work with this method provided and if you encountered same issues after following the steps provided, we recommend for you to contact with the OEM for further support in disabling the IBA.

For listing or viewing the settings for the firmware in your system, if you are using an Intel system you may use the BMC web GUI to view the current firmware version and the settings that you have implemented on the system. If you are using an OEM system, you may use their provided tool to view the settings for the firmware.

Kindly let us know if you have any other inquiries.

Best regards,

Faez.

Intel Customer Support 

[AKbpc]

Thanks for the help!

[Faez_Intel]

Hi Andrew,

Good day and I hope this message finds you well.

Glad to be of help. Kindly let us know if you have any other inquiries. If there are no further inquiries, we will proceed with closing this thread accordingly.

Best regards,

Faez.

Intel Customer Support 

[Faez_Intel]

Hi Andrew,

Good day and I hope this message finds you well.

Since this thread has been marked as closed, we will proceed with the closure from our end as well. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you have any other inquiries and we will assist you accordingly.

Thanks,

Faez_Intel