Question : Problem: Remote Management? vPro / AMT / BMC / IPMI / DRAC / ???

Alright everyone, I've got some questions regarding remote management. I have seen this Intel AMT technology, and while it looks nice on paper, I'm noticing that not too many systems have AMT built into them yet.

I'm also noticing that all computers come with IPMI, and most of those computers have a BMC built into them. I know that Dell Remote Access Cards are just Service Processors that allow for us to utilize the already built-in tools, in a "pretty" way.

Is there a software package (preferably free!) that will allow me to gain remote desktop access before the OS (during POST) and allow for remote power on / off?

Answer : Problem: Remote Management? vPro / AMT / BMC / IPMI / DRAC / ???

Looks like you should choose one of two things
- KVM over IP (to handle PC's)
- try to see if you will be able utilize SNMP managment(to handle most of the equipments).