Many newcomers to used enterprise hardware are shocked: "I bought the server for $200 on eBay, and now I need a $400 license to turn it on remotely?"
The explanation lies in enterprise licensing models. IBM did not sell servers to make money on the hardware; they sold them to make money on support, software, and upgrades. The activation key is a software entitlement.
If you cannot find or afford a key, you are not entirely without options. You can use Serial Over LAN (SOL) via SSH or IPMI to get text-based console access. This works perfectly for Linux/Unix servers but is useless for graphical Windows servers or GUI installers.
Historically, IBM segmented these features for licensing and revenue reasons. While the hardware was capable of full remote control (KVM over IP and Virtual Media), the software capability was "locked" behind a paid upgrade. This is where the IMM Remote Control Activation Key comes in.
Without this key installed, an administrator attempting to launch the remote console would typically receive an error message stating that the feature is disabled or requires a license.
If you need further help locating where to buy a key for your specific server model, reply with the machine type-model (e.g., 7979 for IBM x3550 M2), and I’ll point you to the correct Lenovo parts site or a legitimate supplier.
The IBM Integrated Management Module (IMM) Remote Control Activation Key is a software-based license—often part of the Features on Demand (FoD) program—that unlocks advanced management capabilities on IBM and Lenovo System x servers. This key upgrades the IMM from Standard to Advanced/Premium, enabling essential remote data center operations. Core Features Unlocked
Upgrading with an activation key (such as the IBM IMM Activation Key 743) typically provides: ibm imm remote control activation key
Remote Presence: Full remote control of the server via a Java or ActiveX client, allowing interaction with the OS console as if physically present.
Virtual Media: The ability to mount local files (ISO images) or drives (CD/DVD, USB) as virtual devices on the remote server for OS installation or software updates.
OS Failure Capture: Automatically records the screen during an operating system crash (Blue Screen/Kernel Panic) for easier troubleshooting.
Enhanced Security: Unlocks additional encryption for management communication.
Multi-User Access: Supports up to four to six simultaneous remote sessions depending on the IMM version. Activation & Installation Process
Obtaining the Key: Purchased keys are delivered as an authorization code. Users must visit the Lenovo Features on Demand website to generate the actual .key file using their server's Machine Type and Serial Number. Web Interface Upload: Log in to the IMM web interface. Navigate to IMM Management > Activation Key Management. Select Add and upload the downloaded key file.
Finalization: While not always required immediately, restarting the IMM is recommended to ensure all features are fully pushed to the interface. Shopping & Pricing Many newcomers to used enterprise hardware are shocked:
Prices vary based on the specific server generation (M2 through M5) and whether the key is purchased new or as a refurbished option:
To activate the Remote Control feature on an IBM Integrated Management Module (IMM) , you must install an Integrated Management Module Advanced Upgrade activation key
. This is a Feature on Demand (FoD) license that enables advanced functions like Remote Presence (KVM) and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) capture. 1. Obtain Your Activation Key If you do not already have the file, you can retrieve it or request a trial: Existing Licenses: Lenovo Features on Demand (FoD) portal and select Retrieve history . Search by your server's Machine Type (4 digits) and Serial Number (7 alphanumeric characters). 90-Day Trial:
If you want to test the feature, log in to the same FoD portal and select
. Choose the "IBM Integrated Management Module Advanced Upgrade" feature (often code ) and enter your machine details. 2. Install the Key via the Web Interface
The most direct way to activate the key is through the IMM web management console:
Access your IMM by entering its IP address in a web browser and logging in with your administrator credentials. IMM Management tab and select Activation Key Management reply with the machine type-model (e.g.
It sounds like you're looking for information about the IBM Integrated Management Module (IMM) Remote Control activation key — typically a feature license needed to enable KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) and remote media redirection on older IBM System x and BladeCenter servers.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
Installing the Activation Key upgrades the IMM from Standard to Advanced, unlocking two critical features:
1. Remote Console (KVM over IP) This feature allows an administrator to view the server’s video output remotely via a web browser or Java applet. It provides full keyboard and mouse control.
2. Virtual Media This feature allows an administrator to map a local disk drive (CD/DVD, ISO image, or USB drive) from their workstation to the remote server.
If you have an original proof of purchase or an active warranty: