A method of issuing passwords

摘要

A method of issuing passwords is described where each password is associated with a specified unique entity. For example, an entity may be a site or switch in a communications network and the passwords may be required to enable a software patch to be installed on that switch. A database of details of each entity is stored and a manager is able to modify this database to indicate whether a password may be issued for a particular software patch and switch. A web interface is provided via which requests for passwords are made and an email engine provides email responses to the requests. Details of the requests are stored in the database and a manager is able to obtain information from the database using the web interface. This information enables the manager to control and monitor passwords that are issued and to detect misuse of the system or potential unauthorised password access. <IMAGE>