Re: System password

At 11:02 AM 10/24/01, Douglas Handy wrote:
>Rich,
>
> >machine was powered off for at least a couple of weeks.  When I spoke with
> >IBM regarding this issue, they indicated it was a security 'feature',
>
>Read that as security for IBM, not the customer or the customer's data.

Yes, that's how I meant it.


>I believe the theory is that remaining powered off for a significant period of
>time may indicate a machine which was taken out of service and resold to a
>broker or another buyer.  Since the pre-V4 software licenses were not
>transferrable, it follows that a new buyer should require a new OS license
>from
>IBM.  Invalidating the system password is one mechanism for IBM detecting a
>potential change of ownership.

Yes, I believe you are correct.


>Seasonal business which have an extended closing each year probably face this
>all the time.
>
>In theory, if you are still the rightful licensee then IBM simply issues you a
>new password when you call.  This thread suggests that is not always a simple
>matter for older Dxx boxes, even when IBM knows you deserve a new password.

That's also correct.  It took about sixty days and three tries last time it
happened.  Now, I always leave the machine up.  What concerns me is that
sooner or later IBM will decide to stop issuing new system passwords for
these models, either intentionally or unintentionally.

Regards,
Rich