Abstract: It is an object of the present invention that trust between devices is enhanced by distributing a shared secret (e.g. an X.509 certificate or other cryptographic or shared secret mechanisms), utilizing a short range communication mechanism, thereby permitting those devices to securely authenticate and authorize sensitive commands to each other in communication over the Internet or an untrusted network. A system, method and device are also provided for securely and consistently configuring multiple networked devices with network credentials, server addresses, and web service credentials, and standardizing and enforcing any inventory, device management, or other policies desired by a user/operator at the time of installation, utilizing a short range communication mechanism.