RE: Physical Computer Location

[Tim Donahue <TDonahue () haynesconstruction com>]

Some programs, like Fluke's Network Inspector, are able of printing out
entire network maps with the port locations on each switch.  Using one of
these programs, assuming you know which port goes to which location, you can
keep track of the location of the PC.  

Tim Donahue

PS. I would also consider making a policy that says all computer moves must
be done by the IT department.  I hate nothing more than getting a call from
a user saying their computer doesn't work, and I find out that the user
moved the computer to a new cubicle on their own inciative where we don't
have a live network jack.

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Thomas Graf [mailto:tgraf () swmail sw org] 
> Sent: Monday, August 25, 2003 10:32 AM
> To: security-basics () securityfocus com
> Subject: Physical Computer Location
>
>
> Hello everyone!
>
> I am a newbie trying to make some in-roads in the network 
> security department.  I work at a hospital with approximately 
> 1000 users but about 3000 computers.  We are currently 
> rolling out new computers and are having problems after they 
> are installed.  For example, we replace the secretary's 
> computer but the doctor is fussing because he is not getting 
> a new one.  So, he being the powerful doctor will swap the 
> new one with his old one.  We then have the wrong location 
> listed on the information database for that computer.  We try 
> to correct the situation as much as we can but this being a 
> huge hospital, it gets very hard. 
> So, what can we do to keep track of any physical movements of 
> the computer over the network?  Any suggestions are 
> acceptable.  We just can't lock down the computers because of 
> all the movements in departments because of construction.
>
> Thomas Graf
> IS Hardware/Software Tech
> (254)724-0155
>
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Attend Black Hat Briefings & Training Federal, September 29-30 (Training), 
October 1-2 (Briefings) in Tysons Corner, VA; the world's premier 
technical IT security event.  Modeled after the famous Black Hat event in 
Las Vegas! 6 tracks, 12 training sessions, top speakers and sponsors.  
Symantec is the Diamond sponsor.  Early-bird registration ends September 6.Visit us: www.blackhat.com
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