Computer having an embedded switch

A computer includes a central processing unit, a first network adapter, a second network adapter, and an embedded switch. The embedded switch has a port coupled to the central processing unit, a port coupled to the first network adapter, and a port coupled to the second network adapter. The embedded switch provides a central processing unit with access to an external network using a selected one of the first and second network adapters, runs a baseboard management controller module that includes the functionality of a baseboard management controller, and provides the baseboard management controller module with access to an external network through the embedded switch to communicate with a remote management node.