Abstract: A generic protocol decoder is described for deciphering multiple protocols without requiring unique decoders for each protocol. Object patterns are created for each protocol, each pattern containing state and algorithm objects. These state and algorithm objects perform a portion of the deciphering of each packet and may be reused in multiple patterns. Thus, new protocols may deciphered using existing state and algorithm objects arranged in a new pattern. If new state and algorithm objects are required to decode a new protocol, only the portions not handled by existing objects need be inserted into the system.

Abstract: A generic protocol decoder is described for deciphering multiple protocols without requiring unique decoders for each protocol. Object patterns are created for each protocol, each pattern containing state and algorithm objects. These state and algorithm objects perform a portion of the deciphering of each packet and may be reused in multiple patterns. Thus, new protocols may deciphered using existing state and algorithm objects arranged in a new pattern. If new state and algorithm objects are required to decode a new protocol, only the portions not handled by existing objects need be inserted into the system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a generic communication system for configuring substantially simultaneously one or more remotely located devices in a computer system. A generic communication system establishes physical and logical connection between clients running on a computing platform and remote security devices. A unique client identification is assigned to each client trying to access the one or more devices. Further, a session handler for each of the assigned unique client identifications is generated. Physical and logical connections with the one or more devices are established by dynamically assigning associated transmission media components and protocols based on the generated session handlers and the assigned unique client identifications. The system uses a Component Object Model (COM) based design for communication software.