SMM
SMM can stand for System Management Mode, a special, high-privilege CPU mode for tasks like power management, or System Management Module, firmware with web-based management features in server hardware. System Management Mode is entered via a System Management Interrupt (SMI) and is invisible to the operating system.
System Management Mode (SMM)
A privileged CPU mode on x86 processors for handling hardware-level tasks. Used for functions like power management, thermal monitoring, and hardware configuration. When an SMI occurs, the CPU saves its current state and executes a special handler from a protected memory area called SMRAM (System Management RAM). It operates at a higher privilege level than the operating system, making it a target for malware that can exploit vulnerabilities to gain control.
System Management Module (SMM)
Refers to firmware in servers, often with a web-based interface (WebGUI), used for managing hardware.
It provides functions such as: Node, power, and fan status reporting, Data encryption (e.g., using TLS 1.2), Certificate management, Event log display and management, and Vital Product Data (VPD) information.
©2025 PC Anatomy | 