User guide

Appendix D: FAQs
293
General Questions
What is the Dominion KX II?
The Dominion KX II is a second generation KVM-over-IP switch that
enables IT administrators to access and control servers over a network
with BIOS-level functionality. The Dominion KX II is completely hardware
and OS-independent. Users can troubleshoot and reconfigure servers
even when servers are down.
At the rack, the Dominion KX II provides the same functionality,
convenience, space savings, and cost savings as traditional KVM
switches. However, the Dominion KX II also integrates the industry's
highest-performing KVM-over-IP technology, allowing multiple
administrators to access server KVM consoles from any networked
workstation.
How does the Dominion KX II differ from remote control software?
When using the Dominion KX II remotely, at first glance, the interface
may seem similar to remote control software such as pcAnywhere,
Windows Terminal Services/Remote Desktop, VNC, and so forth.
However, because the Dominion KX II is not software but a hardware
solution, it's much more powerful. Specifically:
• State-Independent/Agentless - The Dominion KX II does not require
the managed server OS to be up and running, nor does it require any
special software to be installed on the managed server.
• Out-of-Band - Even if the managed server's own network connection
is unavailable, it can still be managed through the Dominion KX II.
• BIOS-Level Access - Even if the server is hung at boot up, requires
booting to safe mode, or requires system BIOS parameters to be
altered, the Dominion KX II still works flawlessly to enable these
configurations to be made.
How do the new features of the Dominion KX II compare to the KX
I?
The Dominion KX II has many new and exciting features, including virtual
media, absolute mouse synchronization, dual power, dual gigabit
Ethernet, common web-based user interfaces, next generation local port,
and more.
How do I migrate from the Dominion KX I to Dominion KX II?
In general, customers can continue to use their existing switches for
many years. As their data centers expand, customers can purchase and
use the new Dominion KX II models. Raritan's centralized management
unit, CommandCenter Secure Gateway, and the Multi-Platform Client
(MPC) both support KX I and Dominion KX II switches seamlessly.
Will my existing KX I CIMs work with the Dominion KX II switch?