How to Enable and Configure iLO on HPE ProLiant
HPE iLO (Integrated Lights-Out) provides out-of-band remote management for ProLiant servers — power control, remote console, BIOS access without an OS. This guide covers initial setup.
What You Need
- Physical access to the HPE ProLiant server (initial setup)
- Network cable for iLO port
- Optional: pre-printed iLO label with default credentials
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Locate the iLO management port
On HPE ProLiant DL380/DL360 Gen10+, the iLO port is on the rear panel — labelled "iLO" with a small icon. Plug a network cable into this port. iLO uses a separate IP from the host OS.
Step 2: Find the default iLO credentials
Look for a small label on the inside of the chassis lid (or pull-out tag) printed with iLO username (Administrator) and password (random 8-character string). Each ProLiant ships with a unique iLO password.
Step 3: Configure iLO IP via BIOS or DHCP
Option A — DHCP (easiest): iLO is enabled by default and gets a DHCP lease. Find the IP in your DHCP server logs or via iLO label LED display. Option B — Static IP: Power on, press F9 to enter Intelligent Provisioning > iLO settings > Network > Static IP > enter address/mask/gateway.
Step 4: Access iLO web UI
In a browser navigate to https://<iLO IP> (port 443). Accept the self-signed cert (replace with a real cert later for production). Log in with Administrator + default password.
Step 5: Create a permanent admin user
Administration > User Administration > Add User. Set username, strong password, Role = Administrator. Save. Log out and back in as the new user. Delete or disable the default Administrator account.
Step 6: Update iLO firmware
Administration > Firmware > Online Firmware Upgrade > Browse to firmware bundle (.bin from HPE Support). Upload, install, reboot iLO. Current firmware version (iLO 5): 2.92 or newer.
Step 7: Set DNS, NTP, and SNMP
Administration > Network Settings — configure DNS servers, NTP for accurate time, SNMP for monitoring integration. Save changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iLO?
iLO (Integrated Lights-Out) is HPE's out-of-band server management controller — a separate microcontroller on the motherboard with its own NIC, OS, and web UI. Provides power on/off, remote console, virtual media, sensor monitoring without needing the host OS to be running.
What is the default iLO password?
Unique per server — printed on a label inside the chassis lid (Gen10+) or on a pull-out tag (Gen9). Default username is Administrator. Always change the default password immediately after first access.
Can iLO share the host NIC?
Yes via "shared network port" mode, but not recommended for production. Dedicated iLO port is the secure best practice — keeps management traffic isolated from production data path.
Need the parts?
Pro Disk Network stocks all the parts referenced in this guide. Email sales@prodisknetwork.com with your server model — we will send a quote within one business day.