Abstract: A system includes a utility head end and a utility meter. The utility meter is configured to communicatively couple to the utility head end. The utility meter includes a metrology processor and a head end communications module. The metrology processor is configured to read a measurement. The head end communications module is configured to communicate with the utility head end to transmit the measurement to the utility head end.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide for managing access to utility meters. In one embodiment, a system includes: a computing device communicatively connected to a first utility meter and a second utility meter, the computing device adapted to manage access to the first utility meter and the second utility meter by performing actions comprising: receiving a program file for updating at least one of the first utility meter and the second utility meter, each utility meter including a meter table; comparing the program file to the meter table of the at least one of the first utility meter and the second utility meter to determine if the program file includes authorized bit changes to the meter table; and updating, in response to the comparing, the meter table of the at least one of the first utility meter and the second utility meter.