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Physical Console Security

Besides off‑site consoles, a data center can also place additional consoles in the perimeter of the computer room or other physically secured areas. Areas such as the tape library, tape drive area, printer room, scheduling area, IMS, or CICS Master Terminal Operator (MTO) area usually all require operator consoles. Each console should be restricted to those commands that are needed to perform the required functions.

Because it is possible to switch the location of a console by unfastening the coaxial cable connector attached to the control unit, all control units should be located in the perimeter of the computer room or other secured area. Usually these control units are IBM 3174s or PCM‑vendor equivalents. Again, physical security is the most important aid to controlling operator consoles.