Raritan Dominion DLX2-116 Digital KVM Switch

Powerful, cost-conscious, and effortless to manage, the Raritan Dominion DLX2-116 Digital KVM Switch is built for small and medium businesses that demand BIOS-level access and control of multiple servers without Java dependencies. This KVM-over-IP and serial access solution delivers secure, browser-based management for 8 or 16 servers per unit, with scalable tiering to support up to 256 servers. It combines remote capabilities, virtual media, and simple local access in a compact 1U form factor, making it an ideal heartbeat for SMB data centers, remote offices, and IT closets where reliability and ease of use matter most. The DLX2-116 is designed to streamline server management, reduce on-site visits, and accelerate troubleshooting—all while providing a Java-free, BIOS-level experience that IT teams can depend on every day.

• Java-free, BIOS-level access for up to 16 servers per switch (expandable to 256 with tiering)—Enjoy direct BIOS-level control of your servers without the overhead or compatibility issues of Java plugins. This means faster boot-time access, easier BIOS configuration, and fewer browser-related headaches for administrators.
• KVM-over-IP with concurrent remote and local access—Support for up to two remote users plus one local user means teams can collaborate on troubleshooting, firmware updates, and maintenance without fighting for console time. Remote sessions are designed to be responsive across LAN and WAN connections, helping IT teams stay productive regardless of location.
• Virtual media and remote installation capabilities—Mount remote ISO images, install operating systems, or update firmware without visiting the rack. Virtual media dramatically speeds up deployments and disaster recovery scenarios by delivering every critical installation file straight to the target server from the management console.
• Modular expansion with tiering—Start with 8 or 16 servers per unit and scale to as many as 256 servers by tiering across multiple DLX2-116 units. This makes it easy to grow your infrastructure as your IT needs evolve, without migrating to a completely new chassis.
• SMB-friendly, scalable management—The DLX2-116 combines enterprise-grade features with an SMB-friendly footprint: a rack-mountable 1U chassis, a straightforward web-based interface (no Java required), and a design that minimizes downtime while maximizing control over server access and administration.

Technical Details of Raritan Dominion DLX2-116 Digital KVM Switch

The Dominion DLX2-116 is a compact, rack-mountable KVM-over-IP switch engineered to provide robust, BIOS-level control over multiple servers with a Java-free experience. While device specifications can vary by bundle and firmware revision, the core capabilities highlighted here reflect the DLX2-116’s design goals for SMBs and remote IT teams.

• Model: DLX2-116
• Primary function: KVM-over-IP switch with serial console support to manage servers remotely and locally
• Ports and scalability: Supports 8 or 16 servers per DLX2-116 unit; expandable to 256 servers through tiering across multiple units
• Access model: Up to two remote users concurrently plus one local user; BIOS-level out-of-band access for troubleshooting and recovery
• Interface: Java-free, HTML5-based management interface for browser-based control; no Java plugin required
• Media support: Virtual media capabilities to attach remote ISO images and software installers for effortless remote deployments
• Form factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis compatible with standard 19" racks
• Networking: Ethernet connectivity to integrate with standard IT networks for remote access and management
• Power: AC input suitable for common data center power configurations; designed for reliability in SMB environments

How to install Raritan Dominion DLX2-116

• Plan your rack placement by selecting a cool, dry location with adequate airflow. Mount the DLX2-116 in a standard 19" rack, ensuring clear access to cables and the local console if needed.
• Power down the unit before installation. Connect the DLX2-116 to a reliable power source using the supplied power cable. Verify that the power supply meets your facility’s regulatory standards.
• Connect each target server to the DLX2-116 using the appropriate KVM cables. Attach the keyboard, video, and mouse signals from each server to the corresponding DLX2-116 ports. This establishes the local console pathway for BIOS-level control and troubleshooting.
• Link the switch to your network. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the DLX2-116’s management port to your LAN. Ensure the network allows the required traffic for remote sessions, including any VPNs or firewall rules that may be in place.
• Power up the DLX2-116 and access the web-based management interface from a workstation on the same network. Enter the device’s IP address (static or via DHCP reservation) in a compatible browser. The Java-free HTML5 UI loads, enabling you to configure IP settings, user accounts, and access policies.
• Create user accounts for the two remote users and one local administrator. Assign permissions for KVM access, virtual media usage, and tiering configuration. Enable remote access and set any security preferences such as password policies and session timeouts.
• Register the connected servers within the management interface. Map each server to its corresponding port, set up preferred hotkeys or panel layouts, and configure virtual media sources as needed for deployments or recovery.
• Test BIOS-level access by initiating a remote session to a server. Verify keyboard, video, and mouse input functions correctly, and confirm BIOS-level control works as expected. Mount a test ISO via virtual media to ensure remote deployment capabilities operate smoothly.
• Optionally update firmware to the latest release from Raritan’s repository, following the official update procedure. After updating, re-validate all connections and access methods to ensure uninterrupted remote and local control.

Frequently asked questions

• What servers can the DLX2-116 manage? It supports 8 or 16 servers per switch, with the option to expand up to 256 servers through tiering across additional DLX2-116 units in the same management domain.
• Is Java required to use the Dominion DLX2-116? No. The DLX2-116 uses a Java-free, HTML5-based web interface for remote and local management, simplifying compatibility across browsers and devices.
• How many users can access the system concurrently? The unit provides access for up to two remote users and one local user at a time, enabling collaborative troubleshooting and on-site administration.
• What features accompany remote access? Remote KVM over IP includes BIOS-level control, virtual media for remote software installation, and per-server access control to ensure secure and efficient management.
• Can I expand beyond 16 servers in a single box? Yes. The DLX2-116 supports tiering to scale up to 256 servers by adding additional DLX2-116 units in a tiered configuration, preserving centralized management while expanding capacity.
• How do I install and configure software remotely? Use the remote virtual media feature to mount ISO images and deploy software, operating systems, or firmware without physical media at the server site.