MeshCentral - Intel AMT MEBx, WebUI and MeshCommander

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of manually activating Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) using the Management Engine BIOS Extension (MEBx), accessing the Intel AMT WebUI, and utilizing MeshCommander for remote management. Intel AMT is useful for managing computers remotely, even when they are powered off or not functioning correctly.

Chapter 1: Understanding Intel AMT

• Intel AMT is a hardware-based management technology.
• It allows for remote management of computers regardless of their power state or operating system status.
• Key use cases include troubleshooting, resetting, and inventory management.

Chapter 2: Accessing MEBx

1. Reboot the Computer:

   • As the computer starts, press CTRL + P.
   • Note: If the key does not work, check your BIOS settings to ensure it is enabled.

2. Login to MEBx:

   • Use the default password admin (case-sensitive).
   • If it's your first login, you will be prompted to change the password. Ensure it meets the following criteria:
     • At least 8 characters long
     • Contains at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and one special character.

Chapter 3: Configuring Intel AMT

1. Enable Intel AMT:

   • Navigate to the AMT configuration menu.
   • Ensure that Intel AMT is enabled.

2. Unprovision Intel AMT (if previously activated):

   • Select "Foreign Provision" and unprovision to reset AMT settings.

3. Re-enable Intel AMT:

   • After resetting, enable AMT again.

4. Network Configuration:

   • Activate network access for AMT.
   • Set the computer name for DHCP registration while the OS is off.
   • Enter your local network domain name.
   • Adjust user consent settings (set to "None" for easier access).

5. Exit and Save:

   • Confirm changes and exit MEBx.

Chapter 4: Accessing the Intel AMT WebUI

1. Open a Web Browser:

   • Enter the URL in the format: http://<IP_ADDRESS>:16992
   • Replace <IP_ADDRESS> with the actual IP address of the AMT machine.

2. Login to the WebUI:

   • The Intel AMT interface is accessible even if the computer is off.
   • Review hardware inventory, system status, and event logs.
   • Utilize remote control features to reset the computer if necessary.

3. Configure Wireless Settings:

   • Set up Wi-Fi profiles for AMT to connect independently of the OS.

Chapter 5: Using MeshCommander

1. Download and Install MeshCommander:

   • Visit meshcommander.com and download the software.

2. Add a Computer:

   • Open MeshCommander and add a new computer by entering:
     • Friendly name
     • Hostname or IP address
     • Username and password (the one set in MEBx).

3. Connect to the Computer:

   • If prompted with an error about the digest realm, remove the old connection and reconnect.

4. Explore MeshCommander Features:

   • View power state, reset options, and system configuration settings.
   • Enable remote desktop functionality for accessing the machine independently of the OS.

5. KVM Settings:

   • Adjust settings for color and performance as needed.
   • Use the remote desktop feature to access the machine and perform tasks.

Chapter 6: User Consent in AMT

• Setting User Consent:
  • Change the user consent setting to require approval for KVM access.
  • Upon reconnection, a code will be displayed that must be entered for access.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully activate Intel AMT, access its WebUI, and manage your computers remotely using MeshCommander. This setup is particularly beneficial for IT professionals managing multiple systems, allowing for troubleshooting and management even when the operating system is unresponsive. Consider exploring additional features within MeshCommander to fully utilize Intel AMT's capabilities.