SUSE Support

Here When You Need Us

IBM Virtual ethernet device (ibmveth) listed as UNKNOWN in the sysfs interface

This document (7022743) is provided subject to the disclaimer at the end of this document.

Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11 Service Pack 4 (SLES 11 SP4)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12 Service Pack 3 (SLES 12 SP3)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15

Situation

Currently, the operational state of an IBM Virtual Ethernet device is listed as "UNKNOWN" in the sysfs interface (e.g. /sys/class/net/eth0/operstate), even if the device is operational and transmitting data.

Resolution

Once the PAPR (Power Architecture Platform Reference) is extended to include this functionality, this can be addressed.

Cause

The reason for this behavior is that there is no interface that exists in PAPR (Power Architecture Platform Reference) to determine if a VIO device is operational. It is unknown that the device is operational until it is enabled on boot or by an administrator and begins transmitting and receiving data. Due to this design, it is needed to describe the operational state as "UNKNOWN" until the PAPR is extended to include this functionality.

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.

  • Document ID:7022743
  • Creation Date: 16-Mar-2018
  • Modified Date:03-Mar-2020
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server

< Back to Support Search

For questions or concerns with the SUSE Knowledgebase please contact: tidfeedback[at]suse.com

tick icon

SUSE Support Forums

Get your questions answered by experienced Sys Ops or interact with other SUSE community experts.

tick icon

Support Resources

Learn how to get the most from the technical support you receive with your SUSE Subscription, Premium Support, Academic Program, or Partner Program.

tick icon

Open an Incident

Open an incident with SUSE Technical Support, manage your subscriptions, download patches, or manage user access.