Novell NETWARE 6-DOCUMENTATION Manual page 2828

Why Should I Use Packet Signatures?
NCP packets with incorrect signatures are discarded without breaking the
client's connection with the server. However, an alert message about the
invalid packet is sent to the error log, the affected client, and the server
console. The alert message contains the login name and the station address of
the affected client.
If NCP Packet Signature is installed on the server and all of its workstations,
it is virtually impossible to forge a valid NCP packet.
For additional information about packet signature, see the following:
"Why Should I Use Packet Signatures?" on page 71
"NCP Packet Signature Options" on page 72
"Effective Packet Signature" on page 72
"Recommended Signature Levels" on page 73
To implement packet signature, see
page 73.
We recommend using NCP Packet Signatures for security risks such as the
following:
You have an untrustworthy user at a workstation on the network
Easy physical access to your network cabling system exists
You have an unattended, publicly accessible workstation on the network
NCP Packet Signature is not necessary for every server installation. You might
choose not to use NCP Packet Signature if you can tolerate security risks in
situations such as the following:
Only executable programs reside on the server
You know and trust all network users
Data on the NetWare server is not sensitive and loss or corruption of this
data would not affect operations
"Implementing NCP Packet Signature" on
Managing the NetWare Server
71