Abstract: A network management frame contains a clear text (unencrypted) management command field and a security field. The management frame is sent to a data communications network by an authorized managing entity (manager). The management frame is addressed to a managing agent (agent). The security field includes two sub fields. The first sub field is a clear text time stamp. The second sub field includes this same time stamp value concatenated with a checksum that is calculated by the manager for the specific clear text management command contained within the management frame. The concatenated value is then encrypted under a secret cryptographic key that is shared by the manager and the agent. The agent receives the management frame, calculates a checksum of the clear text management command, and appends this checksum to the clear text time stamp as contained in the received management frame. This value is then encrypted using the shared cryptographic code.

Abstract: In a local area network switch, a first mode of operation is selected wherein frames are examined for errors as the frames are passed from a source port to a destination port. The LAN switch calculates an error rate as a function of a percentage of the frames passing through the local area network switch which have errors. In response to the error rate exceeding a high error rate threshold, the operating mode is switched to a second mode wherein the entire frame is buffered and examined for errors before the frame is passed from the source port to the destination port. Thereafter, the operating mode may be returned to the first mode if the error rate falls below a low error rate threshold. The local area network switch may also change operating modes as a function of a trend, which indicates a rate of increase or decrease of the error rate.