For users managing IBM Netfinity servers running Red Hat Linux 6.2, ensuring stable and reliable network performance is essential. One common issue encountered in this environment is the use of the generic eepro100 driver, which may cause intermittent system hangs when used with onboard or in-the-slot Ethernet adapters. To resolve this, IBM recommends installing the Intel e100 driver, which is specifically tailored for improved compatibility and performance with its Netfinity server family.
This article provides a detailed guide on how to install and configure the e100 driver on supported IBM Netfinity servers running Red Hat Linux 6.2. It outlines the affected configurations, installation steps, and critical troubleshooting considerations to ensure a successful driver upgrade.
Affected Server Models and Configurations
The instructions provided in this document apply to a broad range of IBM Netfinity servers. These models are equipped with Ethernet interfaces that are known to experience instability when using the generic eepro100 driver. Users should refer to the following list to confirm whether their server is affected:
- Netfinity 8500R (type 8681)
- Netfinity 7600 (type 8665)
- Netfinity 7100 (type 8666)
- Netfinity 7000-M10 (type 8680)
- Netfinity 6000R (type 8682)
- Netfinity 5600 (type 8664)
- Netfinity 5500-M20 (type 8662)
- Netfinity 5500-M10 (type 8661)
- Netfinity 5500 (type 8660)
- Netfinity 5100 (type 8658)
- Netfinity 5000 (type 8659)
- Netfinity 4500R (type 8656)
- Netfinity 4000R (US, type 8652)
- Netfinity 4000R (Non-US, type 8653)
- Netfinity 3500-M20 (type 8657)
- Netfinity 3500-M10 (type 8655)
- Netfinity 3000 (type 8476)
- Netfinity 1000 (type 8477)
- Netfinity A100 (type 8652)
These servers can be configured with any number of processors and are typically used in environments where stable network performance is critical. The problem is specifically tied to the use of the generic eepro100 driver with the onboard or in-the-slot Ethernet interfaces of IBM Netfinity and EtherJet Adapter families.
The issue is most prominent in systems running Red Hat Linux 6.2 with the 2.2.16-3 kernel and the RHSA-2000-037-05 patch applied. These systems are at risk of intermittent hangs due to driver incompatibility.
Preparing the System for Driver Installation
Before proceeding with the installation of the e100 driver, it is important to ensure that the system is properly configured. The following steps outline the necessary preparations:
Verify the Kernel Version
To confirm the currently running kernel, execute the following command in a terminal:uname -aThe output should indicate either the 2.2.16 or 2.2.16-3smp kernel. These are the supported versions for the e100 driver. If a different kernel is in use, it may be necessary to update or configure the system accordingly.
Apply the Red Hat Mandatory Patch
The RHSA-2000-037-05 patch must be applied to the Red Hat Linux 6.2 installation. This patch is available for download from the Red Hat support website:http://www.redhat.com/support/errata/RHSA-2000-037-05.htmlFollow the standard procedure for applying kernel patches to ensure system stability and compatibility.
Mount the Driver Installation Media
The e100 driver files are typically provided on a floppy disk or a CD-ROM. To access these files, mount the media using the appropriate mount point. For example:mount /mnt/floppyIf the mount point differs based on the Linux distribution, check the
/etc/fstabfile to identify the correct path.Copy the Driver Files
Once the media is mounted, copy the appropriate driver file (e100.ofor uni-processor systems ore100smp.ofor SMP systems) to the system's module directory. For example:cp /mnt/floppy/e100.o /lib/modules/2.2.16-3/net/e100.oor
cp /mnt/floppy/e100smp.o /lib/modules/2.2.16-3smp/net/e100.oThis ensures that the driver is available for use during the next system boot.
Update the Module Configuration
To switch from the genericeepro100driver to thee100driver, edit the/etc/conf.modulesfile. Locate the line that referenceseepro100and replace it withe100. This change ensures that the correct driver is loaded during system startup.
Finalizing the Installation
After the driver files have been copied and the configuration updated, the system must be rebooted to apply the changes. The following steps provide guidance on how to complete the installation:
Reboot the System
To apply the updated driver configuration, reboot the server using the following command:rebootUpon reboot, the system will load the e100 driver, replacing the previously used eepro100 driver.
Optional: Hot-Reload the Driver Without Rebooting
If rebooting is not feasible, it is possible to reload the driver without restarting the system. This can be done by first deactivating the network interface and then reactivating it. For example:ifdown your_interface ifup your_interfaceReplace
your_interfacewith the appropriate network interface identifier (e.g.,eth0). This method forces the system to load the new driver without interrupting other services.Verify Driver Operation
After the driver has been loaded, it is important to verify that the system is functioning as expected. Monitor the system for any signs of instability or network performance issues. If the problem persists, additional troubleshooting may be necessary.
Troubleshooting and Additional Considerations
If users encounter issues after installing the e100 driver, the following considerations may help identify and resolve the problem:
Intermittent Hangs
One of the most common issues associated with the eepro100 driver is the occurrence of intermittent system hangs. This is typically caused by incompatibility between the driver and the hardware. Switching to the e100 driver, as outlined in this guide, should resolve the issue.Driver Compatibility
The e100 driver is specifically designed for use with Intel-based Ethernet adapters. Ensure that the hardware in use is compatible with the e100 driver before installation.System Logs
If the system experiences unexpected behavior after the driver is installed, review the system logs for any error messages or warnings. These logs can provide valuable insight into the root cause of the issue.Support Resources
For further assistance, users can consult IBM's technical support documentation and Red Hat's official support channels. These resources provide detailed information on driver installation, system configuration, and troubleshooting techniques.
Conclusion
The installation of the e100 driver on IBM Netfinity servers running Red Hat Linux 6.2 is a critical step in ensuring stable network performance. By following the outlined procedures, users can effectively resolve issues related to the use of the generic eepro100 driver and avoid potential system instability.
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to preparing the system, installing the driver, and verifying its operation. It also highlights key troubleshooting considerations to help users address any unexpected issues that may arise.
For IT professionals and system administrators, understanding the correct driver configuration is essential for maintaining system reliability and performance. This guide serves as a valuable reference for anyone managing IBM Netfinity servers in a Linux environment.