Chapter 1 An Overview of the Cisco Unified IP Phone

Understanding Security Features for Cisco Unified IP Phones

•Cisco Unified IP Phone—The phone acts as the 802.1X supplicant, which initiates the request to access the network.

•Cisco Secure Access Control Server (ACS) (or other third-party authentication server)—The authentication server and the phone must both be configured with a shared secret that is used to authenticate the phone.

•Cisco Catalyst Switch (or other third-party switch)—The switch must support 802.1X to act as the authenticator and pass the messages between the phone and the authentication server. When the exchange is completed, the switch grants or denies the phone access to the network.

Best Practices—Requirements and Recommendations

•Enable 802.1X Authentication—If you want to use the 802.1X standard to authenticate Cisco Unified IP Phones, make sure that you have properly configured the other components before enabling it on the phone. See the “802.1X Authentication and Status” section on page 4-31for more information.

•Configure PC Port—The 802.1X standard does not take into account the use of VLANs and thus recommends that only a single device be authenticated to a specific switch port. However, some switches (including Cisco Catalyst switches) support multi-domain authentication. The switch configuration determines whether you can connect a PC to the phone PC port.

–Enabled—If you are using a switch that supports multi-domain authentication, you can enable the PC port and connect a PC to it. In this case, Cisco Unified IP Phones support proxy EAPOL-Logoff to monitor the authentication exchanges between the switch and the attached PC. For more information about IEEE 802.1X support on the Cisco Catalyst switches, refer to the Cisco Catalyst switch configuration guides at:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches/ps708/tsd_products_support_series_home. html

–Disabled—If the switch does not support multiple 802.1X-compliant devices on the same port, you should disable the PC Port when 802.1X authentication is enabled. See the “Security Configuration Menu” section on page 4-23for more information. If you do not disable this port and subsequently attempt to attach a PC to it, the switch will deny network access to the phone and the PC.

•Configure Voice VLAN—Because the 802.1X standard does not account for VLANs, you should configure this setting based on the switch support.

–Enabled—If you are using a switch that supports multi-domain authentication, you can continue to use the voice VLAN.

–Disabled—If the switch does not support multi-domain authentication, disable the Voice VLAN and consider assigning the port to the native VLAN. See the “Security Configuration Menu” section on page 4-23for more information.

•Enter MD5 Shared Secret—If you disable 802.1X authentication or perform a factory reset on the phone, the previously configured MD5 shared secret is deleted. See the “802.1X Authentication and Status” section on page 4-31for more information.

Security Restrictions

A user cannot barge into an encrypted call if the phone that is used to barge is not configured for encryption. When barge fails in this case, a reorder tone (fast busy tone) plays on the phone on which the user initiated the barge.

 

 

Cisco Unified IP Phone 7970G/7971G-GE Administration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager 7.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems 7971G-GE, 7970G manual Security Restrictions, Best Practices-Requirements and Recommendations
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7970G, 7971G-GE specifications

The Cisco Systems 7971G-GE is a sophisticated IP phone designed for enterprise communication, offering a range of features that enhance productivity and collaboration. As part of the Cisco Unified Communications portfolio, this phone is known for its impressive technology and reliable performance.

One of the main features of the 7971G-GE is its high-resolution color display. The 5-inch LCD screen provides users with a visually appealing and intuitive interface, allowing for easy navigation through menus and contacts. The phone supports up to six lines, making it ideal for users who require multiple lines for simultaneous calls. Users can effortlessly manage calls with the ability to switch between lines and access important call features like hold, transfer, and conference calling.

In terms of audio quality, the Cisco 7971G-GE is equipped with high-definition voice technology. This feature ensures crystal-clear sound during calls, reducing background noise and enhancing the clarity of conversations. The phone also supports wideband audio codecs, enabling a richer voice experience that is particularly valuable in business environments.

The phone is designed with user convenience in mind. It offers programmable buttons that can be customized to suit individual needs, allowing easy access to frequently used functions or contact lists. Additionally, the presence indicator feature lets users see the availability of their colleagues in real-time, promoting more effective communication and collaboration.

Networking capabilities are another strong point of the Cisco 7971G-GE. The phone supports both Power over Ethernet (PoE) and standard Ethernet connectivity. This enables easy deployment without the need for additional power outlets. Moreover, the device is compatible with various Cisco communication platforms, integrating seamlessly with existing Cisco infrastructure, which is essential for businesses looking to upgrade their communications systems.

Security is a crucial consideration for modern enterprises, and Cisco addresses this with robust encryption features that protect voice and video calls. The phone supports secure signaling and media encryption, ensuring that sensitive conversations remain confidential.

Overall, the Cisco Systems 7971G-GE is a feature-rich IP phone that combines advanced technology with user-friendly design. Its high-definition audio, customizable features, and seamless integration with Cisco networks make it a popular choice for businesses seeking to improve their communication systems. With its reliability and performance, the Cisco 7971G-GE continues to support effective collaboration in an increasingly connected world.
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