How to Install IBM License Metric Tool
- Verify hardware and software prerequisites.
- Download ILMT from IBM Passport Advantage.
- Set up IBM Db2 as the database for ILMT.
- Install the ILMT server and configure it.
- Deploy agents on all monitored servers.
- Schedule scans and validate data accuracy.
- Generate compliance reports for audits.
How to Install IBM License Metric Tool (ILMT)
IBM License Metric Tool (ILMT) is a crucial software tool that helps organizations manage their IBM software licenses, particularly for sub-capacity licensing.
Proper installation and configuration of ILMT ensure accurate software usage tracking and compliance with IBM licensing terms. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of installing ILMT and the steps required to set it up effectively.
1. Prerequisites for ILMT Installation
Before installing ILMT, ensure that the necessary prerequisites are in place:
Hardware Requirements
- Processor: Dual-core CPU or higher, though quad-core is recommended for larger environments.
- Memory: At least 8 GB of RAM, but 16 GB is advised for optimal performance.
- Storage: The ILMT server needs a minimum of 50 GB of free disk space, and the database needs 100 GB or more, depending on the size of the environment.
- Network: Stable and secure network connectivity for seamless communication with monitored servers and endpoints.
Software Requirements
- Operating System: Supported versions of Windows Server, Linux, or AIX. Ensure that the latest patches and updates are applied.
- Database: IBM Db2 is the recommended database for ILMT. Before proceeding, ensure it is installed, configured, and operational.
- Virtualization Platforms: If you monitor virtualized environments, verify compatibility with VMware, Hyper-V, PowerVM, or other supported platforms.
User Permissions
- Administrator-level access is required for the installation and initial configuration of ILMT.
- Database credentials for connecting ILMT to the Db2 database must be available and verified.
- Permission to deploy ILMT agents on monitored systems is necessary.
2. Downloading ILMT
IBM ILMT is available for download from IBM’s Passport Advantage portal. Follow these steps to obtain the installation package:
- Log in to Passport Advantage: Access the portal using your IBM credentials. Ensure your account has the necessary entitlements.
- Search for ILMT: Use the search bar to locate the latest version of the IBM License Metric Tool and its supplementary components.
- Download the Package: Download the ILMT installation files that are appropriate for your operating system and environment.
- Verify the Download: Check file integrity using the provided checksum or hash to ensure the package is complete and uncorrupted.
- Download Supporting Documentation: Obtain installation guides and release notes for reference during setup.
3. Installing the Database
If Db2 is not already installed, you will need to set it up before installing ILMT:
- Download Db2: Obtain the Db2 installer from IBM’s website or Passport Advantage.
- Install Db2: Follow the installation wizard instructions, ensuring that:
- A dedicated database instance for ILMT is created.
- Sufficient storage and memory allocation are provided for expected data loads.
- Configure the Database: Apply security settings, such as encrypted connections and restricted user access.
- Create a Database User: Set up a user with the necessary permissions to manage ILMT data and provide these credentials during ILMT setup.
Tip: Use IBM’s documentation and best practices for Db2 installation to ensure optimal performance and security.
Read our article about best practices for managing ILMT.
4. Installing ILMT Server
With the prerequisites in place, proceed with installing the ILMT server:
- Extract Installation Files: Unzip the downloaded ILMT installation package and put it into a dedicated directory.
- Run the Installer: Execute your operating system’s installation script or setup file. Use elevated permissions if required.
- Choose Installation Directory: Specify a directory for ILMT files, ensuring sufficient storage and access permissions.
- Connect to Database: During installation, provide the database details, including the hostname, port, credentials, and database name.
- Select Components: Choose the components to install, including the ILMT server, application server, web interface, and reporting tools.
- Finalize Installation: Complete the installation process and verify that the server and associated services are running as expected.
Example: A company allocated 150 GB for ILMT-related storage, ensuring room for database growth as the environment expanded.
5. Configuring ILMT
After installation, ILMT requires detailed configuration to begin monitoring and reporting:
Initial Setup
- To access the Web Interface, Open a browser and navigate to the ILMT web console using the server’s IP address and designated port.
- Login: Use the default administrator credentials provided during installation.
- Update Admin Credentials: Immediately change the admin password to ensure security.
- Set Localization Options: Configure time zones, languages, and regional settings for accurate reporting.
Add Computers for Monitoring
- Install Agents: Deploy ILMT agents on all servers and virtual machines where IBM software is installed. Agents can be installed manually or using automated deployment tools.
- Configure Agent Settings: Specify the ILMT server’s address and communication settings in the agent configuration files.
- Run Initial Scans: Execute initial scans to detect installed software, hardware configurations, and Processor Value Unit (PVU) metrics.
- Verify Communication: Ensure that agents successfully communicate with the ILMT server and data is transmitted.
Set Up Scanning Schedule
- Define Scan Frequency: Schedule scans to run weekly or bi-weekly to keep usage data up-to-date.
- Enable Auto-Discovery: Allow ILMT to detect new servers, virtual machines, and software installations automatically.
- Run Test Scans: Perform test scans to validate configuration and ensure comprehensive coverage of the environment.
6. Integrating ILMT with Virtualization Platforms
If your environment includes virtualized servers, additional configuration steps may be required:
- Verify Virtualization Platform Support: Ensure that ILMT supports all virtualization platforms, such as VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, or IBM PowerVM.
- Install Hypervisor Extensions: For platforms like VMware, install the necessary extensions to enable ILMT to monitor virtual cores and processors accurately.
- Configure Virtual Machines: Assign unique identifiers to virtual machines to avoid tracking errors or duplication.
- Validate Virtualization Data: Run test reports to ensure that virtualized environments are accurately tracked and reported.
7. Updating ILMT
Keep ILMT up-to-date to maintain compliance and compatibility:
- Check for Updates: Regularly visit IBM’s support portal for new ILMT versions, patches, and updates.
- Backup Data: Before updating, create a backup of ILMT’s database and configuration files to prevent data loss.
- Apply Updates: Follow IBM’s instructions to apply updates or patches without disrupting operations.
- Verify Functionality Post-Update: Test the updated system to ensure all features work correctly.
8. Generating Reports
ILMT’s primary function is to provide detailed reports on software usage and compliance:
- Access the Reporting Tool: Use the web interface to access the reporting dashboard.
- Generate Sub-Capacity Reports: Create reports detailing Processor Value Unit (PVU) usage for sub-capacity licensing compliance.
- Customize Reports: Add filters, parameters, or specific date ranges to tailor reports to organizational needs.
- Export Reports: Save reports in PDF, Excel, or CSV format for sharing with stakeholders and auditors.
9. Validating Installation and Configuration
Once ILMT is installed and configured, validate the setup to ensure accuracy:
- Run Full System Scans: Perform complete scans of all monitored systems, including physical and virtual servers.
- Review Logs and Alerts: Check system logs for errors, warnings, or misconfigurations.
- Verify Data Accuracy: Cross-check ILMT data with actual software installations and licensing records.
- Conduct a Mock Audit: Simulate an IBM audit to ensure compliance and readiness.
10. Best Practices for ILMT Installation
To ensure a successful ILMT deployment, follow these best practices:
- Plan Ahead: Allocate sufficient installation, configuration, and validation time and resources.
- Document All Steps: Maintain detailed records of installation steps, configurations, updates, and key decisions.
- Engage Key Stakeholders: Collaborate with IT, procurement, and SAM teams throughout the setup process.
- Test Extensively: Validate every step, including scans, reports, and integrations, to avoid errors in the final setup.
- Provide Ongoing Training: Ensure the IT team understands ILMT’s functionality, including new features introduced through updates.
Read our guide on how to upgrade IBM ILMT.
FAQ: How to Install IBM License Metric Tool
What are the hardware requirements for ILMT?
ILMT requires a dual-core processor or higher, 8-16 GB of RAM, and at least 50 GB of disk space.
Which database is compatible with ILMT?
IBM Db2 is the recommended database for ILMT. Ensure it is installed and configured before setting up ILMT.
How do I download ILMT?
Log in to IBM Passport Advantage, search for ILMT, and download the installation package for your operating system.
Is ILMT installation platform-specific?
Yes, ILMT supports Windows Server, Linux, and AIX. Ensure your operating system is compatible.
Why is Db2 setup important for ILMT?
Db2 stores ILMT’s collected data and compliance reports. A properly configured database ensures accurate reporting.
What permissions are required for ILMT installation?
Administrator-level permissions and database access credentials are needed to install and configure ILMT.
How do I deploy ILMT agents?
Install ILMT agents on all monitored servers and configure them to communicate with the ILMT server.
What is the purpose of scheduling scans in ILMT?
Scheduled scans ensure up-to-date data collection on IBM software installations and usage.
Can ILMT monitor virtualized environments?
Yes, ILMT supports platforms like VMware and Hyper-V. Extensions may be needed for accurate tracking.
How often should ILMT scans be run?
Weekly scans are recommended to maintain accurate data and compliance readiness.
How do I validate ILMT installation?
Run test scans, check system logs, and compare ILMT data with actual software installations.
What reports does ILMT generate?
ILMT generates compliance reports, including Processor Value Unit (PVU) usage for sub-capacity licensing.
What happens if ILMT is not updated regularly?
Outdated versions may lead to inaccurate data collection and non-compliance with IBM licensing terms.
How do I prepare for an IBM audit using ILMT?
Use ILMT’s compliance reports, retain historical data for at least two years, and ensure configurations align with licensing rules.
What training is required to manage ILMT?
IT staff should be trained on ILMT setup, agent deployment, scan scheduling, and interpreting compliance reports.
