Grandstream security vulnerability in the UCM series firmware

Grandstream posted this today…

A security vulnerability has recently been discovered in the UCM series IP PBX firmware version 1.0.14.23 or older. We highly recommend that any UCM customer upgrade their firmware version to 1.0.14.24 or 1.0.15.13 as soon as possible in order to install a permanent fix to this issue.

The security vulnerability affects the UCM6100 series, UCM6200 series, and UCM6510. For more information on the details behind the security issue please read the special security bulletin below.

Grandstream Security Bulletin GS17-003

To upgrade your firmware, please visit the firmware page below and install either 1.0.14.24 (official release) or 1.0.15.13 (currently a beta release).

Grandstream Firmware Page

If you are not familiar with how to upgrade the firmware, please see below for a link to each UCM series user manual:

UCM6100 User Manualpage 349

UCM6200 User Manual page 336

UCM6510 User Manualpage 364

For additional support resources please see the options below. If you are opening a Help Desk ticket please be sure to log in with your ResellerConnect credentials to receive priority technical support.

Help Desk

Grandstream Forums

UCM Security Manual

 

The post Grandstream security vulnerability in the UCM series firmware appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

Using Baicells LTE L2 Mode

Baicells LTE provides an L2 mode to bridge the UE’s.  To change LGW mode, navigate to the Network -> LGW page. In LGW L2 mode, the eNB will create a virtual interface for every UE that attaches. Each virtual interface will then do a DHCP request and create a 1:1 mapping between the UE IP (from Cloud EPC) and LGW IP. In L2 mode, the MAC address that the CPE uses is generated from the IMSI number. To calculate the CPE Mac address, convert the last 12 digits of the IMSI number to hex, then prefix it with 8A. For example, if the IMSI is 311980000002918, you would take the last 12 digits “980000002918” and convert it to hex which would equal “E42C8D5366”, which brings us to the MAC address of 8A:E4:2C:8D:53:66. Once you know the MAC address, you can provision your networking accordingly.

Note:

About the LGW, the CPEs will get private IPs from the cloud EPC. Since the operator has no control over this, LGW is used to translate the IPs to match your own network. You can find some more details on this in the Nova LGW User Guide. We currently do not support VLANs using LGW. With LGW, your options are: NAT mode (L3 w/ NAT), where all CPEs will share the same IP address as the eNB, or Router mode (L3), where you can route to the LGW subnet.

To access the CPE remotely.
First, you have to do some settings on eNB and CPE before you can access into the CPE remotely.

From base station web GUI:
Under LTE Settings->LGW Settings, you can select either NAT (default) or Router mode. Under either mode, you can remotely access the CPE. Details of which are included in the attached LGW User Guide. Also, as described in this guide, you can statically assign an IP address to each CPE based on the SIM card’s IMSI number.

From CPE web GUI:
To enable remote access to the CPE, please remember to enable the “Allow HTTPS Login from WAN” parameter on the System->Web Setting page.

Baicells LTE Attachment(s)
Nova LGW User Guide (8).pdf
LGW Bridge Flowchart (5).png
CPE Working Mode.docx

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Using Baicells LTE L2 Mode appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

One Reason IPV6 on MikroTik Doesn’t Stink

One word, auto configuration.  That’s two words, ok, but if you scrunch it together it is one, autoconfiguration.  My spell check keeps complaining about making it one but oh well.  In the MikroTik world, enabling the MikroTik IPv6 package is really all you need to do to start using it (provided your computer is dual stacked as well).  Today, I realized how nice it is to take a router, reset to factory defaults, and as long as IPv6 is enabled, I can log into the router, Layer 3 with no configuration because IPv6 autoconfigures itself.

That is a big deal because often times on certain laptops, I can’t get MAC WInbox to work.  It can be really flaky but with IPv6 I don’t need it.

Example: I reset this router to factory defaults and look at Winbox:

I can click the MAC address (green arrow) and put up with disconnects or failed connections or click the red arrow and have instant Layer 3 access with no configuration on the router. This one benefit is enough for me to start running IPv6. Obviously, there are many others but this should get your attention at least.

If you want to start learning IPv6, watch some YouTube videos, there are tons, and then create a free IPv6 tunnel with Hurricane Elecric’s Tunnelbroker.com.  Try it, it works!

 

 

The post One Reason IPV6 on MikroTik Doesn’t Stink appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

Updating PoE Standards on the UniFi Product line

Ubiquiti posted this recently and I thought it worth repeating.

UniFi Access Points have always been built to be powered by PoE – it’s convenient, easy to setup and scalable. When we first started producing UniFi nearly 7 years ago, 24v Passive PoE was the standard in the operator space so we opted to use 24v passive for our Enterprise lines (UniFi, EdgeMAX).

UniFi Access Points have always been built to be powered by PoE – it’s convenient, easy to setup and scalable. When we first started producing UniFi nearly 7 years ago, 24v Passive PoE was the standard in the operator space so we opted to use 24v passive for our Enterprise lines (UniFi, EdgeMAX).

Since then, 802.3af and 802.3at PoE technologies have become the standard, especially in the Enterprise space. The 802.3af/at standards provide a number of benefits over 24v passive that improve stability, allow for greater voltage, etc. (For more details on PoE methods/standards see our article on PoE here).

For this reason, we have been intentionally moving our products (UniFi APs, UniFi Switch, UniFi Video, etc.) toward the current standard for some time, and will continue to do so.

  • 802.3af+24V Support for UAP-AC-LR/UAP-AC-LITE
  • Removal of 24V Support from New Production of UniFi Switch Series

While we have produced many devices that support 802.3af/at, a couple of our Access Points (UAP-AC-LITE, UAP-AC-LR) continued supporting only 24V passive. Over the past several months (starting in September 2016) a number of customers have noted the appearance of some UAP-AC-LRs/UAP-AC-LITEs that have a sticker showing “802.3af Compatible” (see top-left of boxes in image below):

This reflects a hardware revision that has been made to make newer UAP-AC-LITEs and UAP-AC-LRs 802.3af compatible in addition to supporting 24V passive. Any device produced with datecode 1638 (September 2016) and up contains this revision and can be powered by any 802.3af power source like the UniFi Switch.

As a part of updating and improving our products, we will continue to transition away from 24V passive PoE and prioritizing 802.af/at standards. To this end, already-produced switch units with 24V PoE support will retain it, while all future production starting on July 1st 2017 will be 802.3af/at only (across all UniFi Switch models). As existing stock at distributors/resellers/etc. will remain 24V+802.3af stock for some time (until it sells out), this transition will be gradual, with our goal of simplifying UniFi PoE to standards.

This update to the UAP-AC-LR/LITE has been made to ensure that these devices can continue to benefit from updated technology and be deployed with industry standard PoE.

AC-LITE and AC-LR Change Summary

  • The only change made to the AC-LITE and AC-LR devices was the introduction of 802.3af compatibility, as of September 2016.
  • This will not affect the performance of the devices in any way.
  • This modification was added to add stability/consistency to product line at no additional cost to customers.
  • These updated devices will continue to permit 24V passive.

UniFi Switch Change Summary

  • The only change made to the UniFi Switch series is the removal of 24V output support.  Models with 24V support removed will start production July 2017:
    – US-8-150W
    – US-16-150W
    – US-24-250W
    – US-24-500W
    – US-48-500W
    – US-48-750W
  • All new UniFi Switch models will also not have 24V support.

This transition is by popular request of UniFi users.  We intentionally rolled 802.3af support into the UAP-AC-LITE and UAP-AC-LR (starting Sept. 2016) nine months before initiating removal of 24V from new production of the UniFi Switches (starting July 2017) to lessen the impact of the transition.

The post Updating PoE Standards on the UniFi Product line appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

ISP Supplies Names Violeta Thompson New Director of Marketing

College Station, Texas: ISP Supplies, a leading provider of high-quality networking equipment, recently announced that Violeta Thompson has joined the company’s marketing team as Marketing Director.

Violeta will be developing and implementing an overall corporate marketing strategy, directly engaging and managing the marketing team, and translating the company’s business objectives into marketing strategies that drive revenue. In addition, she will determine and administer the marketing budget and identify and track key metrics. ISP Supplies is looking to expand its marketing efforts and provide a stronger presence across North and South America.

“We conducted a nationwide job search looking for someone with Violeta’s qualifications and we are elated that we were able to bring her into our ISP family. Her integrated marketing experience and skill set around modern, scalable marketing methods will allow us to capitalize on the strength of the ISP Supplies brand as we continue to innovate and grow.”  said Steve Discher, Owner and Founder.

With over a decade of experience, Violeta comes to ISP Supplies most recently from Dolce Advertising where she served as Creative Director and Strategist. In her role, she has managed and motivated interdisciplinary teams, developed and implemented business strategies, and designed and directed various new client branding campaigns. Her most notable work is in web development that ranges from informative websites to highly configurable e-commerce website and software applications. Violeta holds a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from the University of New Orleans and is a member of the American Market Association and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

About ISP Supplies: ISP Supplies is a leading provider of high quality wired and wireless networking equipment and services. The company’s 10,000 square foot warehouse provides wireless internet service providers with products from top manufacturers. Its team of experienced trainers has consistently been the choice among notable enterprises and institutions, including the U.S. Department of Justice, Centurylink, and the Smithsonian Institute.

The post ISP Supplies Names Violeta Thompson New Director of Marketing appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

MikroTik Optimal Wireless Config for Transparent Point to Point or Backhaul

I am often asked what is the optimal configuration for a point to point with Mikrotik, typically SXT’s.  I would stress that the fewer settings you make, the better the link will work so I don’t recommend tweaking, just set the basics.  Here are screen shots of everything that needs to be set to make a high capacity point to point.  The red boxes are settings that are peculiar to that end of the link and the blue boxes are the settings that must match both ends of the link:

Wireless AP End of Link (also called bridge mode on a point to point)

Station End

ISP Supplies is a premiere MikroTik stocking distributor in the USA and we pride ourselves on offering more than boxes; we also offer knowledge.  Our team is knowledgeable, willing and able to provide technical assistance with any MikroTik device.

 

The post MikroTik Optimal Wireless Config for Transparent Point to Point or Backhaul appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

Getting Started With Baicells LTE

Baicells has created a new “LTE How To” for new WISP operators.  As you may already know, Baicells equipment is Plug & Play and by far the easiest LTE devices to set up and add to your current network. Many common startup problems evolve from the operator making too many changes during startup. Keep it simple to start with and tweak settings after the system is live.

The new guide can be found HERE.

One thing you will notice in the guide is that the simplicity of the product is enhanced by the fact that UE’s (CPE devices) and eNodeB’s (Base Stations) must be associated with the new owner’s CloudCore account to operate.   ISP Supplies is the only distributor that automates that process through our custom application, SIMPro. SIMPro allows us to scan the serial numbers of eNodeB’s and the IMSI’s of UE Sim Cards into our database, tie them to your SIMPro account and automatically email them to Baicells for provisioning.  You can even add notes to the devices in the SimPro app.  When your product arrives, it is ready to deploy.

Baicells LTE SimPro

LTE is the future of fixed wireless and you can learn more on my blog.

ISP Supplies is one of the largest Baicells LTE distributors in North America with hundreds of successful LTE deployments.  Our knowledgeable sales engineers are standing by to assist you in designing and deploying LTE in your existing or startup network.  For access to SimPro or to discuss fixed LTE, call us today at 855-947-7776.

The post Getting Started With Baicells LTE appeared first on Steve Discher.


Source: Blog

Installing the TP-Link EAP225 WiFi Access Point and JetStream T1600G-28PS POE Switch

 

This application involves delivering internet access to a number of executive office suites. The MDF/IDF was located in one set of suites. My design criteria were as follows:

1. Simplicity, no controller on site for WiFi. Set it and forget it.
2. Use existing building Cat5e wiring to deliver wired ethernet with POE for phones, desktops and printers, and let everything else be WiFi.
3. Keep costs as low as possible.

The two suites that required WiFi were separated by another suite that was occupied by a different tennant, and did not require service. I anticipated needing two Access Points, one in each suite group, however, the one EAP225 served all areas with great service.  The worst signal measured was a -71 in the far end of the building.  Everywhere else was in the low 60’s or typically much better.  The total distance from end to end was 90 feet.

The products used were:

TP-Link EAP225 Access Point in standalone configuration mode, no controller. These AP’s can be clustered into enterprise class, controller managed networks, or act as stand alone devices, configured directly in their http GUI. I chose the latter.

TP-Link JetStream T1600G-28PS POE Switch – These switches are awesome and work out of the box as POE switches, auto switched using 802.3 standard for POE and POE+. The CLI is just like Cisco IOS.

We used the supplied clips to clamp the bracket to the suspended ceiling. Total time to install the AP, less than 5 minutes.

Next, I ran a premade Cat5e cable through the ceiling to the nearby IDF and attached the plastic plate.

Next, plug in thecable and rotate the AP to lock into place. The switch already sensed the AP and is supplying POE power, no configuration required.

Next, I logged into AP and configured the SSID and WPA2 key for 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.  User and password is admin by default.

Set the SSID and WPA2 key:

Click Save and repeat for 5 GHz radios:

The total installation time for this network, that is, mounting and cabling the switch, mounting and cabling the AP, and configuring was less than 30 minutes.  The diagram and identifying the jacks took the longest, about an hour.

I highly recommend this product due to low cost and high performance.  Installation time is also very minimal due to the simplicity with awesome performance.  ISPS upplies is a Stocking TP-Link Distributor located in College Station, Texas.
Source: Blog

MikroTik, Ubiquiti and WISP Learning Center

This is an idea that has been long in the making, a single repository of technical information where you as a user can go to get the information you need quickly about MikroTik, Ubiquiti or other WISP topics.  Yes, most manufacturers have wiki’s but our is different because we post articles about the most often asked questions, tips and tricks we have learned as WISPs.  Check it out at wiki.ispsupplies.com.
Have a suggestion for an article?  Please let me know by emailing me.

Improved Ubiquiti airCam Mount From RFElements

If you have ever used Ubiquiti airCams, you know how powerful they are and how the low price point makes them perfect for almost any security application.  One area where we have seen some weakness is the mounting system.  I wrote about this briefly last month but now that we have these in stock and not just the prototypes, I thought it worth rehashing.
Although it fully articulates, the stock mount is not very strong and in high wind conditions, the camera will move causing false motion detection.

RFElements has a new product, the AbraCam Mount which makes these cameras extremely stable in outdoor environments.

The mounts come in three designs, all less than $15 each and they turn these powerful, low cost cameras into high end, professional looking and performing devices. As a test, I took 4 and installed them in Colorado in an area in the mountains that regularly experiences mountain winds coming off the continental Divide in excess of 100 mph.  The site was really getting weary from tons of false motion detects as the airCams swayed in the wind.  The results of the new mounts were great, no more false positives at all.  The cameras are rock stead and easy to adjust.  This is a hot product so come and get some before the first shipment disappears.