Configuring for Remote Serial Connection

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Figure 5.6 illustrates a remote serial connection using a modem. The modem is connected to the server that is running Emergency Management Services, and the remote management computer connects over the phone line.

Figure 5.6   Serial Connection with Modem

The management computer runs terminal emulation software that preferably supports VT-UTF8 terminal conventions. The modem functionality might be provided by an external modem or by a service processor with built-in modem functionality.

This configuration depends on physical security between the server and the modem and modem-based security for the phone connection. For security, modems that support dial-back are preferred. If you use a service processor, it might provide additional security options.

This type of configuration has the following advantages:

• No need to buy additional hardware

• Easy to set up and configure

• Good for situations with very few servers to manage

• Management computer can be in a remote location

Disadvantages of this type of configuration include:

• Security is not robust

• Ineffective in situations with many servers to manage

This configuration can be used for the minimal remote management example described in "Examples: Selecting Remote Management Tools" earlier in this chapter.