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Private and open networks in the HMC environment

The HMC can be configured to use open and private networks. Private networks allow the use of a selected range of nonroutable IP-addresses. A public, or "open" network describes a network connection between the HMC to any logical partitions and to other systems on your regular network.

Private networks

The only devices on the HMC private network are the HMC itself and each of the managed systems to which that HMC is connected. The HMC is connected to each managed system's FSP (Flexible Service Processor).

On most systems, the FSP provides two Ethernet ports labeled HMC1 and HMC2. This allows you to connect up to two HMCs.

Some systems have a dual-FSP option. In this situation, the second FSP acts as a "redundant" backup. The basic setup requirements for a system with two FSPs are essentially the same as those without a second FSP. The HMC must be connected to each FSP, so additional network hardware is required (for example, a LAN switch or hub) when there is more than one FSP or there are multiple managed systems.

Note: Each FSP port on the managed system must be connected to only one HMC.

Public networks

The open network can be connected to a firewall or router for connecting to the Internet. Connecting to the Internet allows the HMC to "call home" when there are any hardware errors that need to be reported.

The HMC itself provides its own firewall on each of its network interfaces. A basic firewall is automatically configured when you run the HMC Guided Setup wizard, but you customize your firewall settings after the initial HMC installation and configuration.

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Last updated: Wed, May 07, 2014