No ethernet boot option for netboot?

Question

MrBeatnik Author

Level 1

5 points

No ethernet boot option for netboot?

Hi,

I am troubleshooting a netboot installation.

I have a Macbook, which I have connected to the network with the ethernet cable.

As part of my troubleshooting, I am:

> Pressing the option key at power on to get to the boot menu.

When I get to the boot menu, I see the hard disk of course.

I am also prompted to "Choose Network..." which shows various WiFi networks.

I don't want a WiFi network. I want to use ethernet, but this is not presented as an option.

If I press N at this point, nothing happens.

How can I get the network boot option over ethernet here?

It gets DHCP server IP address when it boots to OSX normally.

Thanks.

MacBook Pro, OS X Yosemite (10.10.1)

Posted on Jan 15, 2015 6:06 AM

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Answer 1

jeremy_v

Community Specialist

Jan 17, 2015 6:31 AM in response to MrBeatnik

Hi MrBeatnik,

Thank you for contributing to the Apple Support Communities.

If you'd like to boot from a NetBoot image on your network when you're connected via ethernet, try holding the N key at startup instead of Option:

Startup key combinations for Intel-based Macs - Apple Support

Press N during startup

Attempt to start up from a compatible network server (NetBoot).

Sincerely,

Jeremy

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Answer 2

MrBeatnik Author

Level 1

5 points

Jan 17, 2015 6:43 AM in response to jeremy_v

Hi,

That doesn't help. That's the normal way of doing it, which isn't working.

As mentioned in my post, I'm troubleshooting netboot, hence why going to the boot menu. My understanding is that the N key still works in the boot option menu. Particularly if you have more than one server to chose from.

Are you suggesting that the N key does not work in the boot menu at all? I have seen videos where it apparently works, although it may be only USB Ethernet

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Answer 3

jeremy_v

Community Specialist

Jan 17, 2015 2:20 PM in response to MrBeatnik

Hi MrBeatnik,

Thank you for your reply.

Due to the nature of your question, you may find more information by using another one of Apple's support resources - https://getsupport.apple.com/GetproductgroupList.action.

Best Regards,

Jeremy

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