David M Reece

US Patent:

7640581, Dec 29, 2009

Filed:

Feb 27, 2004

Appl. No.:

10/789292

Inventors:

James Albert Brenton - Olathe KS, US
Matthew Hermstedt - Olathe KS, US
Michael Lee Martin - Overland Park KS, US
David Wayne Reece - Harrisonville MO, US

Assignee:

Embarq Holdings Company, LLC - Overland Park KS

International Classification:

H04L 29/06

US Classification:

726 12

Abstract:

A system and method for establishing centralized, out-of-band access to remote network elements is provided. Status and other information can be securely retrieved from the remote elements. One or more servers observe and manage a plurality of remote elements using modem-to-modem communications between a modem bank and a remote modem. Requests are submitted through a central mediation point, thereby allowing central control of user profiles and a collection of security audit log information. One or more authentication mechanisms provide enforced security measures and trusted communication paths between a user and a remote element. Remote elements can be securely monitored and administered from a central location.