iDRAC

iDRAC, or integrated Dell Remote Access Controller, is Dell's out-of-band management technology embedded in Dell PowerEdge servers. It provides remote administration capabilities independent of the server’s operating system or power state, allowing administrators to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot hardware remotely.

Key features include a remote console (virtual KVM), virtual media for mounting remote installers, and remote power control to power on, power off, or reset the server. iDRAC collects hardware telemetry such as temperature, fan speeds, and voltages, and can generate alerts or integrate with management software. The Lifecycle Controller, included in many editions, assists with OS deployment, firmware updates, and hardware configuration from a single interface.

Access is available through a dedicated management port or an embedded NIC, depending on the server model. The interface supports web UI and command-line access, along with modern programmatic interfaces such as the Redfish REST API. In addition, older management protocols like IPMI remain supported on some models for compatibility.

Licensing options include iDRAC Express and iDRAC Enterprise; Enterprise unlocks full remote-management features such as the remote console, virtual media, and a dedicated management NIC, enabling remote administration even when the host OS is down.

iDRAC has evolved across generations, from iDRAC6 through iDRAC9, with iDRAC9 forming the basis for current Dell PowerEdge servers and integrating with Dell OpenManage and Lifecycle Controller. It is widely used to manage large fleets of servers in data centers and remote locations.