Is Network Security Key and Password the Same Thing? No. They are two separate codes to connect to a network or to a device.
Network security keys, also known as network authentication keys, are a set of codes used to authenticate a device on a Cisco Unified Communications system. Passwords are used to access the device. The passcodes are stored on a server that connects to the devices over the network and validates the devices before they can access the system.
Is There More Than One Network Security Key?
Yes. You can have multiple network security keys on your Cisco Unified Communications system. An example of how multiple network security keys might be used is if you want two separate call centers to use a single system. If you have multiple call centers, you could create separate network security keys for each call center. And assign each one to its own group of users. This would enable either call center to use the system. But only members of their own call center would have access.
For example, members of Call Center A would have access to the Call Center A network security key and members of Call Center B would have access to the Call Center B network security key. Members from either call center could not access users from the other call center and vice versa.
So, what is the Network Security Key really?
Network-based call signaling separates voice and data networks, so they cannot be hacked into and misused. Network security keys are used in conjunction with network-based call signaling. They are used to authenticate devices on a Cisco Unified Communications system. Network security keys consist of codes used to validate a device on a Cisco Unified Communications system before the device can access the system.
Network-Based Call Signaling is a set of security technologies, architectures and standards that enables all communication services to be delivered over the voice data network using Voice over IP (VoIP). It also provides the ability to deliver multiple communications services from multiple vendors on a single platform.
Two separate networks
With network-based call signaling, two separate networks are created: one for voice and one for data traffic. The voice network features packetized voice traffic instead of traditional circuit-switched (CS) traffic. The data network features point-to-point connections between servers instead of other methods such as CS or frame relay.
The combination of these technologies allows for the separation of all voice and data traffic. So they do not share the same network infrastructure such as routers, switches and firewalls. The separation prevents hackers from being able to access any other functions or data on the network. In order to steal information or manipulate systems.
Network-based call signaling also requires all traffic. Except for the initial connection that occurs between the IP phone and the ATA device. Then go through a signaling server before it can reach its final destination. The signaling server authenticates each connection before it is allowed to pass through. Hence, protecting against unauthorized devices accessing other devices or applications on the network.
Why do I need a password?
Passwords are used to access the device. The passcodes are stored on a server that connects to the devices over the network and validates the devices before they can access the system.
Conclusion
In summary, network security keys are a set of codes used to authenticate a device on a Cisco Unified Communications system. Passwords are used to access the device. The passcodes are stored on a server that connects to the devices over the network and validates the devices before they can access the system.