Fixing Dell Broadcom bge0 watchdog timeout errors

wblock@

Developer
When using a Dell system recently with an onboard Broadcom bge(4) network interface, it would repeatedly show watchdog timeout - resetting on that interface, and there was no connection. This was on a fresh FreeBSD 9-STABLE. Adding these settings to /boot/loader.conf solved it:

Code:
hw.bge.allow_asf=0
hw.pci.enable_msi=0
 
Seems identical on HP Z400 and Z800 with 11.0-RELEASE, too.
They aren't even allowing install via internet if you attempt to use the onboard ethernet ports for that.
Better use an adapter which is supported by a good network driver like igb.
Then you can save yourself many troubles if you just enter ifconfig_bge0="down" in /etc/rc.conf.
 
Better use an adapter which is supported by a good network driver like igb.
Then you can save yourself many troubles if you just enter ifconfig_bge0="down" in /etc/rc.conf.

Sure, this is a no brainer. But in life you have situations, when there is no choice in hardware - and then the hint to this "non intuitive" solution is definitely helpful.

Cheers.
 
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