Understanding the Dangers of Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Traffic

Of all the protocols on the Internet today, none has gotten more of a bad rap than the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) protocol. RPC is a favorite protocol for programmers because it allows for a high degree of functionality and ease of use. Along with these powerful capabilities, however, come powerful risks. RPC was directly responsible for many of the more common and destructive exploits to traverse the Internet, including the notorious Blaster virus.

RPC exploits and security issues have caused many organizations to severely restrict RPC communications, which has had the unintended effect of diminishing end user productivity. A better, more intelligent method of allowing secured RPC access was necessary.