Intel VPro Privacy Concerns

[CuttingEdge100]

Has anyone heard of Intel VPro?

I've been told this system can be accessed remotely, or re-configured even if the computer's shut off. The fact that there is apparently no way to disable this and no way to tell if the computer is being remotely accessed is a serious privacy concern.

How can it be accessed if power is off? Does it have it's own power supply? Or is it's power derived by being plugged in?

Also, what computer models have that type of processor


CuttingEdge100

 

[Robert Maxwell]

It has to be plugged in and attached to a network in some way (wired or wireless.)

It's also used primarily in business machines, where such functionality makes IT's job easier.

It's not something home users should be too concerned about, since the technology itself is targeted at and exists almost entirely in business-class PCs.

Anyway, here is an article going into some detail:

The third-generation vPro suite (formerly code-named McCreary) uses Core 2 quad-core or dual-core processors in combination with Q45 Express Chipset, the 82567LM Gigabit Network Connection, and Intel Active Management technology 5.0. Mobile chipsets, such as the GM, PM, and GS Express chipsets also support vPro. Intel also introduced two motherboards Monday supporting all of the new Intel vPro features. Aimed at channel customers, the DQ45CB is for standard-sized PCs and the DQ45EK is for small-form-factor systems.

 

[kv1at3485]

How can it be accessed if power is off? Does it have it's own power supply? Or is it's power derived by being plugged in?

Current motherboards still draw a bit of juice after you "shut down". (Try it out with an MB with an LED on it.) The only way to stop this is to pull out the power cable/switch off the power bar/etc..

 

[CuttingEdge100]

kv1at3485,

Current motherboards still draw a bit of juice after you "shut down". (Try it out with an MB with an LED on it.) The only way to stop this is to pull out the power cable/switch off the power bar/etc..

Fascinating.

 

[Robert Maxwell]

It has to work that way in order for "wake-on-LAN" functionality to work.