This software key, for use with the IBM Advanced Connectivity Technology (ACT) products, allows users to centrally manage Remote Console Manager (RCM) KVM over IP switches as a common solution. By using industry-standard Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), this new software brings major benefits over individually managed switches. Changes such as to access, server viewing rights, etc. can now be made to a single central location rather than at each switch. This authentication improvement, and the addition of the added security feature of 3DES communication encryption, will make the RCM viable in even the largest most complex installations. The new key turns on functionality already built into the latest firmware.