Donald D Kim

US Patent:

61192287, Sep 12, 2000

Filed:

Aug 22, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/916273

Inventors:

Michael F. Angelo - Houston TX
David L. Collins - Magnolia TX
Donald D. Kim - Houston TX
Kenneth A. Jansen - Spring TX

Assignee:

Compaq Computer Corporation - Houston TX

International Classification:

H02J 1300

US Classification:

713180

Abstract:

A method for providing secure remote control commands in a distributing computer environment. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a network administrator or network management software creates a shutdown record, including an index or time stamp, for powering down a specified network computer(s). Prior to broadcast over the network, a secure one-way hash function is performed on the shutdown record. The result of the one-way hash function is encrypted using the network administrator's private key, thereby generating a digital signature that can be verified by specially configured network nodes. The digital signature is appended to the original shutdown record prior to broadcast to the network. Upon receiving the broadcast message, the targeted network computer(s) validates the broadcast message by verifying the digital signature of the packet or frame. The validation process is performed by decrypting the hash value representation of the shutdown record using the network administrator's public key.