The initial administrator password for Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) is typically admin. This default password is used to access the Intel AMT BIOS Extension Menu, allowing for initial configuration and management of the technology.
Accessing Intel AMT and Entering the Password
To access the Intel AMT BIOS Extension Menu and enter the password:
- Power On the computer.
- Press CTRL-P when prompted during the boot process. This action will display the Intel AMT BIOS Extension Menu.
- Enter "admin" for the Administrator password when prompted.
Once you have successfully logged in with the default password, it is critically important to change it immediately for security reasons.
Understanding Intel Active Management Technology (AMT)
Intel AMT is a powerful hardware-based technology built into Intel vPro-enabled PCs. It allows IT administrators to remotely manage and secure computers out-of-band, regardless of the operating system's state or even if the system is powered off (as long as it's connected to a power source and network). Key capabilities include:
- Remote Power Control: Powering systems on, off, or restarting them.
- Hardware-Level Access: Accessing the BIOS, redirecting boot, and managing hardware components.
- Operating System Reinstallation: Remotely reinstalling or repairing operating systems.
- Asset Management: Retrieving hardware and software inventory information.
- Security Features: Including network filtering, agent presence checking, and KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) remote control.
Importance of Changing the Default Password
Leaving the default "admin" password unchanged poses a significant security risk. Malicious actors could potentially exploit this known default to gain unauthorized access to your systems, leading to data breaches, system compromise, or disruption of services.
Best Practices for AMT Password Security:
- Change Immediately: Always change the default "admin" password upon initial setup.
- Strong Passwords: Create a complex password that includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It should be at least 15 characters long.
- Unique Passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different systems or services.
- Regular Rotation: Periodically change AMT passwords according to your organization's security policies.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Where supported, implement MFA for an additional layer of security.
- Network Security: Ensure the network segment where AMT is accessible is properly secured and firewalled.
Example AMT Password Policy Guidelines
Implementing a robust password policy is crucial for securing Intel AMT. Here’s an example of what such a policy might look like:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Minimum Length | At least 15 characters. |
| Character Types | Must include at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and one special character (e.g., !@#$%^&*). |
| No Dictionary Words | Passwords should not contain common dictionary words, names, or easily guessed sequences. |
| Uniqueness | A new password cannot be one of the last 10 passwords used. |
| Expiration | Passwords must be changed every 90 days. |
| Account Lockout | After 3 unsuccessful login attempts, the account should be locked for a specified period (e.g., 30 minutes) or require administrator reset. |
By adhering to these security guidelines and promptly changing the default Intel AMT password, organizations can significantly reduce their attack surface and protect their remote management capabilities. For more detailed information, consult the official Intel vPro Platform resources.
