AT&T DEFINITY Remote Port Security Device - Manual (Page 12)

Getting Started
The DEFINITY ® Remote Port Security Device (RPSD) is a single line dial-up port protection
system that prevents unauthorized access to a host resource. Host resource dial-up ports, called
“subscribers,” are protected by the installation of the RPSD Lock hardware unit on the analog
interface channel leading to the subscriber port. Access is provided only when the calling party
uses the RPSD Key, a hardware unit installed on the analog interface channel on the calling
party end.
The RPSD system provides security and control for virtually any type of dial-up port on any host
resource, regardless of the type of modem associated with the host’s dial-up ports. This
document specifically targets AT&T Business Communications Systems customers and users of
the DEFINITY Communication System, System 85, System 75 PBXs, DIMENSION
® PBX, and
supporting peripheral products, for which reason most references in this document are specific to
Business Communications Systems. However, this should not be understood as restricting other
applications of the RPSD system.
The RPSD Lock and Key system also provides the system administrator greater control over the
PBX or protected host resource administration by enabling the system administrator to specify
the time of day that access to a port is permitted or to block any or all access to the line by users
of RPSD Keys. In addition, a system activity log provides a real-time record of access attempts
and their outcomes. Session summaries track statistics on all successful and failed attempts,
providing convenient MIS data resources.
Note: The Remote Port Security Device, if properly installed and managed, clearly
provides a significant and substantial barrier to unauthorized access to a dial up
communication port.
Note that the Remote Port Security Device cannot be assumed to be impregnable,
but needs to be viewed as an important addition to the tools and measures used by
system managers to prevent unauthorized access to dial up ports.
Getting Started 1-1