Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for SCCP

Configuring the Cisco ATA Using a TFTP Server

The following command and output show an example of this command.

Command Example

atapname.exe 10.20.30.40.50.60

Command Output

ata0a141e28323c

Note The same functionality is available from the voice configuration menu (voice menu code 84#), which will announce the Cisco ATA profile name.

Using the EncryptKey Parameter and cfgfmt Tool

The EncryptKey parameter encrypts binary files being transferred over a TFTP server. You can make this parameter unique for each Cisco ATA.

By default, the Cisco ATA-specific ata<macaddress> configuration file is not encrypted. If encryption of is required, however, you must manually configure the EncryptKey parameter before you boot up the Cisco ATA so that the TFTP method is secure. Use either the voice configuration menu (see the “Voice Configuration Menu” section on page 3-18) or the Cisco ATA web configuration page (see the “Cisco ATA Web Configuration Page” section on page 3-21) to configure the EncryptKey parameter.

Note Because the factory-fresh Cisco ATA cannot accept encrypted configuration files, the first unencrypted file, if intercepted, can easily be read. (You would still have to know the data structure format in order to decode the binary information from the unencrypted file.) Therefore, the new encryption key in the unencrypted file can be compromised.

Set the EncryptKey parameter to a nonzero value. When this value is nonzero, the Cisco ATA assumes that the binary configuration file on the TFTP server is to be encrypted with this key by means of the RC4 cipher algorithm. The Cisco ATA will use this key to decrypt the configuration file.

The Cisco ATA EncryptKey parameter and the encryption key used in the cfgfmt tool command syntax must match.

Note For security reasons, Cisco recommends that you set the UIPassword parameter (if desired) in the configuration file and not by using one of the manual configuration methods.

The cfgfmt.exe syntax affects how the EncryptKey parameter is used, as shown in the following examples. In these examples, input_text is the ata<macaddress>.txt file that you will convert to binary to create an ata<macaddress>configuration file for the Cisco ATA; output_binary is that binary ata<macaddress> file, and Secret is the encryption key.

Syntax examples

•cfgfmt -tpTagFileinput-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.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide (SCCP)

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Cisco Systems ATA 186 Using the EncryptKey Parameter and cfgfmt Tool, Command Example, Command Output, 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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