1.6 Remote Support and Network Management

1.6.1 Support Remote Users

• Remote-access technologies allow an authorized technician to control a user's desktop.
• They are useful when resolving complex problems that are difficult to explain over the phone.
• They introduce security risks, so only authorized technicians should receive access.

Client-Server Model for Remote Access

• Client: connects to the remote system.
• Server: the system being accessed.

1.6.2 Remote Access with Telnet, SSH, and RDP

Telnet

• An older protocol created in the 1970s.
• It does not encrypt its traffic and is therefore vulnerable.

SSH (Secure Shell)

• A secure alternative to Telnet.
• Provides encryption and stronger authentication.

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol)

• Created by Microsoft.
• Provides remote access to a graphical desktop.

1.6.3 Demonstration — Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance

1.6.4 Understanding VPNs

Types of VPN

1. Site-to-site: connects entire networks.
2. Remote access: connects an individual user to a private network.

1.6.5 Network Management Systems

• Configure, monitor, and manage network performance.
• Use protocols such as SNMP and RMON to collect information.
• Cisco Meraki is an example of a cloud-managed platform.

1.6.6 Video — What Is Network Management?

1.6.7 Scripting, Automation, and Programmability

• Automation creates systems that perform tasks with little or no manual intervention.
• Benefits include greater efficiency, fewer human errors, and lower operating costs.
• Languages such as Python are commonly used for automation scripts.

1.6.8 Check Your Understanding — Remote Connectivity Troubleshooting

1. Which secure solution provides a graphical interface for remote technical support?
   • RDP
2. Which technology connects a user to a private network remotely?
   • Remote-access VPN
3. Which type of system controls a network and collects operational data?
   • Network management system