Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for MGCP

Configuring the Cisco ATA Using a TFTP Server

Syntax examples

The cfgfmt.exe syntax affects how the EncryptKeyEx or EncryptKey parameters are used, as shown in the following examples. In these examples, input-text-file is the ata<macaddress>.txt file that you will convert to binary to create the ata<macaddress> configuration file(s) for the Cisco ATA; output-binary-file is that binary ata<macaddress> file, and Secret is the encryption key.

•cfgfmt -mgcp -tptag.datinput-text-file output-binary-file

If input-text-file sets the Cisco ATA EncryptKey parameter to 0, then output-binary-file is not encrypted. If the input-text-file sets EncryptKey to a non-zero value, then output-binary-file is encrypted with that value.

•cfgfmt -X -mgcp -tptag.datinput-text-file output-binary-file

This is an example of how you might perform encryption on a first-time Cisco ATA.

The -X (uppercase) option means that any value specified for the Cisco ATA EncryptKeyEx parameter in input-text-file is ignored. However, because Secret is not specified in this example, output-binary-file is not encrypted. Nevertheless, the EncryptKeyEx parameter and its value, if specified in input-file-text, will be included in output-binary-file for possible encryption at a later time. The next time the Cisco ATA fetches the configuration file from the TFTP server, the file will be encrypted with Secret.

•cfgfmt -X -xSecret -mgcp -tptag.datinput-text-file output-binary-file

This is an example of changing the encryption key from one key to another key.

The -X (uppercase) option means that any value specified for the Cisco ATA EncryptKeyEx parameter in input-text-file is ignored and the output-binary-file is encrypted with the Secret key. However, the EncryptKeyEx parameter and its value, if specified in input-text-file, will be included in output-binary-file.

Examples of Upgrading to Stronger Encryption Key

This section contains two examples of how you would upgrade your Cisco ATA configuration to use the stronger encyrption method if the current Cisco ATA firmware version was a version earlier than version 2.16.2. Versions earlier than 2.16.2 do not support the stronger EncryptKeyEx parameter.

Example 1

In this example, the Cisco ATA has not yet been deployed, but its firmware version is earlier than 2.16.2. Therefore, the Cisco ATA will upgrade to to firmware version 3.0 to use the EncryptKeyEx parameter as its encryption key.

The Cisco ATA in this example has a MAC address of 102030405060.

Perform the following steps:

Procedure

Step 1 Create a file called ata102030405060.txt by using the applicable example.txt file provided with the Cisco ATA software. (For example, for MGCP, the example.txt file is called mgcp_example.txt.)

Step 2 Modify the ata102030405060.txt file with desired parameter values. The value of the EncryptKey parameter should be 0.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide for MGCP (version 3.0)

 

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Cisco Systems ATA 188, ATA 186 manual Examples of Upgrading to Stronger Encryption Key, Syntax examples
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ATA 188, ATA 186 specifications

The Cisco Systems ATA 186, or Analog Telephone Adapter, revolutionized the way traditional telephony interacted with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. Designed primarily for home and small office use, the ATA 186 allows users to connect standard analog phones and fax machines to a network, enabling them to take advantage of the benefits of VoIP technology.

One of the defining features of the ATA 186 is its dual port architecture. It includes two FXS ports, allowing users to connect up to two analog telephones. This functionality means that multiple devices can leverage VoIP services simultaneously without the need for separate adapters for each phone. The flexibility of the ATA 186 helps streamline the user experience, facilitating voice communication over an IP network while ensuring users can still use their existing phone equipment.

The ATA 186 employs various technologies to maintain high-quality voice calls. It supports standard voice codecs such as G.711 and G.729, which ensure efficient bandwidth usage while preserving call clarity. The adaptive jitter buffer technology further enhances call quality, compensating for network variations and minimizing latency, which is crucial for clear and uninterrupted conversations.

Additionally, the ATA 186 provides users with advanced calling features that were traditionally available only on PBX systems. These features include caller ID, call waiting, and voicemail functionality, integrating seamlessly with typical telephony services. The device also supports T.38 fax relay, allowing users to send and receive faxes over the internet, thus addressing the needs of environments where fax communication remains essential.

The security of VoIP conversations is also a priority for the ATA 186. It employs encryption protocols such as Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), ensuring that voice data is securely transmitted across the network. This focus on security helps protect sensitive information transmitted during calls.

Installation and configuration of the ATA 186 is streamlined, with an intuitive web-based interface that simplifies the setup process. This accessibility makes it suitable for users with varying levels of technical expertise, as frequently required adjustments, such as network configurations and firmware updates, can be easily managed.

In conclusion, the Cisco Systems ATA 186 stands out as a versatile and robust solution for users looking to integrate analog phones into a VoIP environment. With its dual port capabilities, high-quality voice codecs, advanced call features, and security measures, it offers a compelling choice for both residential and commercial users seeking seamless telephony integration. As technology evolves, devices like the ATA 186 remain cornerstones in bridging traditional telephony with modern communication systems.
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