You can configure the HMC to send hardware service related information to IBM by using a LAN-based Internet connection, a dialup connection over a modem, or by using the Internet connection or modem of an i5/OS partition.
There are two communication choices when configuring a LAN based Internet connection. The first choice is to use standard Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). The second option is to use a VPN connection.
SSL communication can be enabled to connect to the Internet through your proxy server. SSL connectivity is more likely to be compliant with corporate security guidelines. Advantages to using an Internet connection rather than a modem connection include:
Unless your security policy prohibits any connectivity from the HMC over the Internet, an Internet connection is recommended.
You can find more detailed help on the following elements of this window:
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) through the Internet
Dial up from the HMC through a modem
Virtual Private Network (VPN) through the Internet
Connecting through other systems or partitions (Pass-Through)