To get into Intel AMT, you typically need to enable it within your system's BIOS/UEFI settings first, and then access it remotely using specific management tools over your network.
Enabling Intel AMT in BIOS/UEFI
Before you can utilize Intel AMT's remote management capabilities, it must be activated in your computer's firmware. This process involves accessing the BIOS or UEFI setup utility during startup.
Here are the general steps to enable Intel AMT:
- Restart Your System: Power on or reboot your computer.
- Enter BIOS/UEFI Setup: As the system begins to boot, press the
Esckey repeatedly or hold it down. On many systems, common keys to enter BIOS/UEFI areF2,Delete,F10, orF12. The exact key can vary by manufacturer. - Navigate to AMT Configuration: Once in the BIOS/UEFI setup utility, use your keyboard to navigate through the menus. Look for a section often labeled "Advanced," "Peripherals," or similar, and then specifically locate an option like "Advanced AMT Configuration" or "Intel AMT Configuration."
- Enable Intel AMT: Within the AMT configuration screen, find the option to enable Intel AMT. Select it and change its status to "Enabled."
- Save Settings and Exit: After enabling AMT, make sure to save your changes before exiting the BIOS/UEFI setup. This option is usually labeled "Save and Exit," "Exit Saving Changes," or similar.
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reboot System | Start or restart your computer. |
| 2 | Enter BIOS/UEFI | Press Esc (or other manufacturer-specific key like F2, Del) during boot. |
| 3 | Navigate Menu | Find "Advanced AMT Configuration" or similar options. |
| 4 | Enable AMT | Set Intel AMT to "Enabled" within its configuration screen. |
| 5 | Save & Exit | Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup utility. |
What is Intel AMT?
Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) is a feature of Intel vPro technology that provides hardware-based remote management capabilities. It allows IT administrators to remotely manage and troubleshoot computers, even if the operating system is crashed, turned off, or unresponsive. This "out-of-band" management is crucial for maintaining system uptime and performing essential tasks like inventory, diagnostics, and repairs without physical access to the machine. You can learn more about its features on the official Intel AMT page.
Accessing Intel AMT Once Enabled
Once Intel AMT is enabled in the BIOS/UEFI, it needs to be configured on the network and then accessed using appropriate software.
Common Methods for Accessing AMT:
- Web Interface (Intel MEBX/Web UI): Many AMT-enabled systems expose a web-based interface (often called the Management Engine BIOS Extension or MEBX web UI). You can access this by entering the system's AMT IP address into a web browser.
- Configuration: Typically, you'll need to configure network settings (IP address, subnet mask, gateway) for AMT, and set up user accounts with strong passwords. This is often done via the MEBX (accessed during boot with a key like
Ctrl+P) or a dedicated configuration tool.
- Configuration: Typically, you'll need to configure network settings (IP address, subnet mask, gateway) for AMT, and set up user accounts with strong passwords. This is often done via the MEBX (accessed during boot with a key like
- Intel Management Commander/MEMS: Intel provides specialized software tools like the Intel Management Commander or Intel Endpoint Management Assistant (EMA) that allow IT professionals to discover, configure, and manage multiple AMT devices across a network.
- Third-Party Management Consoles: Many popular IT management platforms and remote monitoring and management (RMM) solutions integrate with Intel AMT, providing a unified interface for managing AMT-enabled devices alongside other assets.
- VNC for KVM Access: For full KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) remote control, AMT can provide a VNC server that allows you to see the display and interact with the system as if you were physically present.
Prerequisites for Remote Access:
- Network Connectivity: The AMT-enabled system must be connected to the network, and the AMT interface must be configured with a valid IP address.
- User Credentials: You will need the correct username and password configured for the AMT interface.
- Open Ports: Ensure that the necessary network ports (e.g., ports 16992-16995 for HTTP/HTTPS, Redirection, KVM) are open on any firewalls.
- Intel vPro Processor: AMT is a feature of Intel vPro platforms, so the system must have a compatible Intel processor and chipset.
By following these steps, you can enable Intel AMT and subsequently leverage its powerful remote management capabilities.
