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    MASTER KEY  (a Newton Extension)

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Master Key was written by Ted Ling as a small Newton Extension that adds functionality to the existing Newton password/PIN protection. It should only be added to the Internal store of a newton and not onto memeory cards as removing the card will remove the functionality. It adds a '"Master Key" Preference to the general Newton Prefs after it is installed. This means as well as the normal PIN number working another "Master" PIN number will also get you through the start-up screen. This is only for use with existing Newton Message PADs 120s and 130s that are running version 2.0 of the operation system.



This extension is mainly useful for vertical markets and System administrators who have to control a number of Newtons which need to be password protected for their data but also have the need for the users to be able to change their own PIN numbers in the Normal way (i.e. in Security in the Newton Prefs) or the users are very forgetful. The Master PIN/password can be used to override any password/PIN that someone else has set-up on the machine. It also has the advantage that you can give the Master PIN code over the phone (if they are not in the office), and change the Master PIN to a new one when you next have the Newton in your possession.



Using Master Key on the Newton is analogous to the way they used to have Master keys in hotels to open any hotel room, in case the guest lost their own key.



When Master Key is first selected in the Newton prefs, the administrator can set a Master password/PIN which should be recorded and stored in a secure place. This password/PIN will remain in place/use unless changed in the Master Key prefs set-up (impossible without the password/PIN number). However for security reasons (I want people to be aware that they have an overriding PIN number system installed), the master key code is removed when the extension is removed or deleted.

THIS MEANS: Once the Master Key  extension has been removed the "old" Master Key PIN number will not work on that Newton unless the extension is re-installed and the number re-set/ re-entered in the prefs.



I recommend that once installed you don't use your Master Key PIN number just like a second alternate PIN number (as it only increases the confusion and you may more easily forget the ordinary PIN number). Use it as a backup, that you write down and keep in a secure place, that you may only need in an emergency. It does not replace the functionality of your normal PIN security but only enhances it for the "start up/login" screen. You cannot use the Master Key PIN number when you want to change or remove the "normal" PIN number, in the security Prefs, it is only to get you through the "start up/login" screen and get access to the Newton Data.



PLEASE NOTE: this is a 'real hack' around the existing Newton security PIN number system. It only works on Newtons running version 2.0 of the OS, and has only been tested on a small sample of Message PAD 120s and 130s. However it should default to behaving safely, i.e. you end up with the Master PIN not working, and the old PIN functionality remaining.



If any vertical market developer has a legitimate use for any variation on this extension (e.g. maybe not being removable by the user, has default pin number, or built into their own applications or extensions???) then they should contact me directly for possible development.



MasterKey)1996 Ted Ling.  All rights reserved.