Network Boot

The term "Network Boot" describes the process of booting a computer (desktop, laptop, or server) from a network server. For this, the computer must be equipped with a network boot code, such as the TCP/IP BOOT-PROM or PXE PROM code.

This method can be used to provide diskless computers with a network-booted operating system, and so turn them into "Thin Clients".

Also, it is used for unattended installation purposes, where a "helper operating system" is booted over the network, and serves as a platform for the operating system installer.

More, this method can be used in emergency boot scenarios, where an emergency operating system is booted over the network in order to perform maintenance activities, such as an offline virus scan, a firmware update, etc.