Install PXE Tools with APT
Run PXE Tools directly on a Linux host with a Debian package and system services.
Distribution in preparation
The signed APT repository and installer have not been published yet. The verified key and installation command will be added here when the product is released.
Before you start
Prepare the host and check your network before enabling PXE services.
- A compatible Linux host. Debian 13 and Ubuntu 24.04/26.04 on amd64 are being evaluated; supported platforms will be confirmed at release.
- Administrator access for package installation and service configuration.
- A network interface connected to the machines you intend to boot, and an existing DHCP service.
The installation process
Verify the signing key
Authenticate the repository signing key through a trusted independent source before adding a dedicated keyring.
Install the package
Add the signed repository with a dedicated keyring, then install the package with APT. The repository details will be provided at release.
Create your instance
Create the administrator account and configure the authenticated Debian archive keyring. The console and acquisition worker can then be started.
Configure network boot
In the console, select the network interface and prepare the boot files. Enable the PXE service explicitly when your network is ready.
Network and console access
The console listens on the host’s loopback interface. Use an SSH tunnel when connecting remotely. Check for conflicting PXE services before enabling proxy DHCP; PXE Tools does not assign IP addresses.
Services at a glance
In the current development version, installation does not start the services or open ports. Start the console and worker deliberately; enable PXE only after configuring the network.
Scroll the table sideways to see all columns.
| Service | Network | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Console | 127.0.0.1:8080 | Local administration |
| Worker | HTTPS outbound | Downloads and verifies boot files |
| PXE | TFTP UDP 69 · HTTP TCP 80 | Serves boot files on the chosen interface |
| Proxy DHCP | UDP 67 and 4011 | Optional; works alongside an existing DHCP server |
PXE Tools does not assign IP addresses. If you do not use proxy DHCP, your existing DHCP server needs to supply the PXE boot information.
Open the console remotely
The development console listens only on the host’s loopback interface. From your workstation, create an SSH tunnel, replacing user@host with your own account and server:
ssh -L 8080:127.0.0.1:8080 user@hostThen open http://127.0.0.1:8080/ on your workstation. Do not expose the current console directly to the network.
Updates and data
The current package preserves instance data on removal and purge; purge removes the environment configuration. Back up both data and configuration before updating; automatic migrations are not yet guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the APT signing key the same as the Debian archive keyring?
No. The PXE Tools repository key authenticates its packages; the independently authenticated Debian archive keyring verifies the Debian boot files fetched by PXE Tools.
Does installation enable network boot immediately?
No. In the current development version, installing the package does not start services or open ports. The PXE service must be configured and enabled explicitly.
Can I use my existing DHCP server?
Yes. Use proxy DHCP alongside it, or configure your existing DHCP server to provide the required PXE boot information. PXE Tools does not assign addresses.
The development version currently prepares the Debian 13 amd64 installer, which the operator runs manually. Physical networks and clients have not yet been validated.
Prefer containers?
Explore the Docker Compose route.