Part 1: The hardware setup
As a first attempt at trying MAAS outside the lines (MOTL), let’s pick a random, inexpensive Next Unit of Computing (NUC). Indeed, let’s start with a Minis Forum N33, which is older and “out of print.” The relevant forum is offline, and manuals are hard to Google up. Nice challenge.
Background
PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) booting is a key technology in network-based computing. It enables computers to boot from a network, independent of local storage devices. PXE enables provisioning environments like MAAS. We can’t remotely deploy operating systems and applications if we can’t control the unit.
PXE plays a critical role for MAAS. It automates the installation, reconfiguration, and re-purposing of servers. It streamlines operations in data centers, managed IT services, and sophisticated home networks. The Minis Forum N33 NUC, with its compact form factor and versatility, is a potential candidate for MAAS. The N33 is versatile. It can…