Chapter 1 An Overview of the Cisco Unified IP Phone

Understanding Security Features for Cisco Unified IP Phones

Table 1-3 Overview of Security Features

Feature

Description

 

 

Image authentication

Signed binary files (with the extension .sbn) prevent

 

tampering with the firmware image before it is loaded on a

 

phone. Tampering with the image causes a phone to fail the

 

authentication process and reject the new image.

 

 

Customer-site certificate installation

Each Cisco Unified IP Phone requires a unique certificate for

 

device authentication. Phones include a manufacturing

 

installed certificate (MIC), but for additional security, you

 

can specify in Cisco Unified CallManager Administration

 

that a certificate be installed by using the Certificate

 

Authority Proxy Function (CAPF). Alternatively, you can

 

install an Locally Significant Certificate (LSC) from the

 

Security Configuration menu on the phone. See the

 

“Configuring Security on the Cisco Unified IP Phone”

 

section on page 3-17 for more information.

 

 

Device authentication

Occurs between the Cisco Unified CallManager server and

 

the phone when each entity accepts the certificate of the other

 

entity. Determines whether a secure connection between the

 

phone and a Cisco Unified CallManager should occur, and, if

 

necessary, creates a secure signaling path between the entities

 

using TLS protocol. Cisco Unified CallManager will not

 

register phones configured in authenticated or encrypted

 

mode unless they can be authenticated by the

 

Cisco Unified CallManager. Phones in non-secure mode are

 

not authenticated because no TLS session is established.

 

 

File authentication

Validates digitally-signed files that the phone downloads.

 

The phone validates the signature to make sure that file

 

tampering did not occur after the file creation. Files that fail

 

authentication are not written to Flash memory on the phone.

 

The phone rejects such files without further processing.

 

 

Signaling Authentication

Uses the TLS protocol to validate that no tampering has

 

occurred to signaling packets during transmission.

 

 

 

 

Cisco Unified IP Phone 7906G and 7911G Administration Guide for Cisco Unified CallManager

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems 7911G, 7906G manual Feature Description, Configuring Security on the Cisco Unified IP Phone

7906G, 7911G specifications

The Cisco Systems 7911G is a versatile IP phone designed to enhance communication in enterprise environments. Targeting workers in various organizational settings, this model is known for its reliability, ease of use, and robust features that cater to both basic and advanced telephony requirements.

One of the key features of the Cisco 7911G is its support for Voice over IP (VoIP) technology. Using this technology allows for the transmission of voice signals over the internet rather than through traditional telephone lines. This not only reduces telephony costs but also offers enhanced functionality that integrates seamlessly with existing communication systems.

The phone is equipped with a monochrome graphical display that provides users with clear visibility of their call status, directory information, and menu options. With a resolution of 128x64 pixels, the screen is large enough to offer important information without overwhelming the user. This simplicity makes it an ideal choice for users who require straightforward functionality without the complexity of advanced features.

Ergonomically designed, the Cisco 7911G features a comfortable keypad with dedicated buttons for frequently used functions such as mute, hold, and transfer. It supports multiple lines, providing users with the ability to manage multiple calls simultaneously. Additionally, it offers programmable line keys that can be customized for speed dial or as soft keys for quick access to features.

The device supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows the phone to receive power through the network cable rather than needing a separate power source. This feature not only simplifies installation but also enhances mobility within the workspace, as it reduces cable clutter.

Another significant characteristic of the Cisco 7911G is its compatibility with Cisco Unified Communications Manager, which ensures centralized management of telephony systems. It also supports a range of audio codecs that help in delivering high-quality audio during calls, reducing latency and improving overall communication quality.

Security is also a focus with the Cisco 7911G, as it features a secure access feature that includes Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) for encrypted voice communications. This ensures that sensitive conversations are protected from eavesdropping.

Overall, the Cisco Systems 7911G is a reliable, feature-rich IP phone that provides an excellent solution for organizations looking to upgrade their communication systems. Its combination of user-friendly design, powerful integrations, and security features makes it a cornerstone in the suite of Cisco telecommunications solutions.