How to reload OS of your Server using IPMI?

Updated: 8 October 2026 · Applies to: Dedicated servers with IPMI, iDRAC or iLO

IPMI (called iDRAC on Dell and iLO on HPE servers) gives you the server's console and virtual media from a web browser, even when the operating system does not respond. You can use it to reinstall the operating system from an ISO.

Note: Reinstalling erases the disk. Back up everything first. If your dedicated server does not include IPMI access, ask our support team to reinstall it for you.

Reinstall with the IPMI web interface

1. Log in to the IPMI address (https://IPMI-IP) with the credentials from your server details.
2. Open the remote console (for example Remote Control › Remote Console › Launch Console on current Supermicro boards (step by step in installing an OS with Supermicro IPMI), Virtual Console on iDRAC, HTML5 Integrated Remote Console on iLO). Current versions work in the browser; the old Java console is no longer needed.
3. Attach the installation ISO as virtual media (Virtual Media in the console menu). Use an ISO on your computer, or a network share if your IPMI supports it.
4. Restart the server from the console (Power Control › Reset), and choose the virtual CD in the boot menu (usually F11 on Supermicro/Dell, F11 or F9 on HPE).
5. Install the operating system as usual (for example AlmaLinux 9 or Ubuntu 24.04), then remove the virtual media and reboot.

Note: Keep IPMI off the public internet where possible (use a VPN or restrict it to your IP), and change its default password.