harmony/docs/adr/004-ipxe.md

ADR: Use iPXE as the Primary Bootloader with Chaining for Architecture Independence

Status: Implemented

Context:
Harmony requires a flexible and unified bootloader solution to handle both BIOS and UEFI architectures. We need support for dynamic boot configurations, advanced network booting capabilities, and the ability to manage diskless machines.

Decision:
Adopt iPXE as the primary bootloader. For BIOS and UEFI clients, use chaining to load iPXE, ensuring all clients boot into a common iPXE environment.

Consequences:

• Benefits:
  • Single configuration file for all architectures.
  • Enables dynamic and scripted boot processes.
  • Supports booting over various protocols (HTTP, HTTPS, iSCSI, SAN, etc.).
  • Allows diskless machines with networked root filesystems.
• Trade-offs:
  • Adds a dependency on iPXE.
  • Requires proper configuration and maintenance of iPXE.