Preventing Unauthorized Access

This section describes preventive measures against unauthorized access from external networks. For administrators and users that are using the machine in a network environment, make sure to read this section before use. Connecting to networks enables you to use various functions such as printing, remote operation from a computer, sending scanned documents through the Internet, etc. However, for protection against unauthorized access from an external network, security measures are essential. This section describes some countermeasures against unauthorized access, which must be implemented before using the machine with a network environment.

An IP address is a number that is assigned to a computer on a network. A "global IP address" is used for Internet connections. A "private IP address" is used for local area networks such as an office LAN. If your IP address is a global IP address, unauthorized users on the Internet can attempt to access your local network and risks such as information leakage become larger. If your address is a private address, only users on a local area network such as the office LAN have access.

Generally, when setting up an IP address, use a private IP address. For a private IP address, any addresses in the following ranges can be used. Confirm if the IP address that is currently set is a private IP address.

For information on how to confirm IP addresses, see Setting an IPv4 Address.

A firewall is a system that prevents unauthorized access from external networks in order to prevent attacks or invasion into the local area network. Access from outside your local network that has potential to be a risk can be shut out beforehand by limiting communication from a specific external IP address in your network environment. Restricting Communication by Using Firewalls

For TLS communication, see Starting the Remote UI.

Even if the machine receives unauthorized access from a malicious third party, risk of information leakage can be greatly reduced when various information resources in the machine are protected by passwords.

These are examples of preventing unauthorized access. For other details, see Managing the Machine and carry out necessary settings according to your environment.