3Com 3CR990SVR97, 3CR990-TX-97, 3CR990-TX-95, 3CR990SVR95 Onboard 3XP Processor, Data Encryption

14CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Onboard 3XP Processor

The 3CR990 NIC represents a new generation of secure, intelligent client NICs with an onboard RISC processor (3XP processor). The 3XP processor is designed to optimize system and network performance. The NIC off-loads key networking and security tasks from the host PC CPU (central processing unit) to the 3XP processor, even when running bandwidth-intensive applications such as voice, video, imaging, and Internet and intranet applications.

Data Encryption

The 3CR990 NIC provides DES (Data Encryption Standard 56-bit) encryption and 3DES (triple-DES 168-bit) encryption. Encryption processing is handled entirely

by the 3XP processor and the encryption chip that resides on the NIC.

The onboard encryption chip enables true end-to-end network security (IPSec) at the data capacity of the connected network cable (wire speed), without sacrificing performance.

LAN Encryption Software for Windows 95/98

3Com DynamicAccess® LAN Encryption software is available on the EtherCD packaged with your NIC. The LAN Encryption utility secures communication for individual computers by ensuring authentication, encryption, and data integrity. It intercepts incoming and outgoing communication and encrypts it, blocks it from passing, or lets it through without encryption.

DynamicAccess LAN Encryption software supports both DES (56-bit) and 3DES (168-bit) encryption. For detailed information on DynamicAccess LAN Encryption, see the DynamicAccess LAN Encryption Software Administrator’s Guide, located with the DynamicAccess LAN Encryption software on the 3Com EtherCD. (For installation instructions, see Installing DynamicAccess LAN Encryption Software on page 76.)