PXEenabled

PXEenabled refers to whether a computer system is configured to permit network-based booting using the Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE). In practice, this is often represented as a boolean flag in the system firmware (BIOS or UEFI) or as a setting within remote management interfaces and virtualization platforms.

When PXEenabled is true, the system may attempt a network boot according to the configured boot order. This typically involves obtaining an IP address from a DHCP server and loading a boot image via TFTP from a PXE server. Network boot is commonly used for operating system deployment, system recovery, or diskless client environments. When PXEenabled is false, the system prioritizes local boot devices such as internal storage, and network boot is skipped unless explicitly enabled later.

Configuration and management can occur at multiple levels. On physical hardware, users access firmware setup to enable or disable PXE/PXE boot and adjust the boot sequence. In enterprise environments, PXE settings may be managed through integrated Dell/HP/Lenovo management tools, Intel AMT, or other out-of-band interfaces. Virtual machines can also enable PXE boot as a boot option to install or repair an operating system from a network source.

Security considerations include the potential risk of booting from an untrusted network. Best practices advise enabling PXE only when needed, securing the network path, using authenticated PXE where available, and disabling PXEenabled after use to prevent unintended network boots.

See also: PXE, boot sequence, DHCP, TFTP, network boot, PXE server.