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Re: console access



H,

> 
> After installing the machine and Linux, open the box, and set up the
> floppy drive to be floppy drive B:. BIOS can't boot from it that way.
> Change the setup in the BIOS. You will still be able to mount floppys with
> data. Then, close the box using special screws or purchase a computer
> anti-theft kit and use it. Check out Office Depot, I think they have them.
> This makes shure that noone can open the machine and change the setup
> back.

Ever heard of the 'Swap floppy' option ? I use it for convenient cabling.
Also, if you need floppy, get a floppy controller on the secondary address
(like on AHA1542) so that BIOS won't know the floppy. And put the computer
into a tresor.

> Just what do you mean by cracking the BIOS ? The BIOS password is secure
> if the case cannot be opened to short the battery and do the other obvious
> tricks.

The BIOS password is against office workers. There are enough programs to
change the CMOS settings (INCLUING the password) and you can even flash
another BIOS nowadays (like one to your liking)



 
> On the other hand, if you have a set of determined opponents with the
> right tools, then they will perhaps anonymously email you a copy of the
> /root directory and all the passwords on the system in clear, just for
> laughs. It is possible that they will decide not to return the hardware,
> though. It has happened before, apparently.

Yes, it's just too easy once you can touch the computer - even with those
anti-thief-systems (How do you suppose computer technicians solve those
problems ! :-) )

Again, physical access is all !!!

Schlomo

PS: Espesially true for Novell Netware - the console is just like an
invitation to enter and stay.


> 
> hope this helps,
> 	Peter
> 
> 
>