New 2023 Dealer Infrastructure & Security Guidelines

The new GM Dealer Infrastructure & Security Guidelines (DISG) are now available to help dealers with the technology needed to ensure reliable data communications, including recommended personal computer (PC) specifications. (Fig. 1) The guidelines also include several security principles and best practices.

 

Fig. 1

 

Supported vs. Not Supported Hardware and Software

The Supported vs. Not Supported matrix includes guidelines for hardware (Enterprise-grade hardware intended for a business environment is recommended) and software used by all departments in the dealership. (Fig. 2) Keep in mind that the rugged use of computers in the service department requires upgraded specifications than those used in other dealership departments.

 

Fig. 2

 

Currently, Windows 10 Professional and Windows Server 2016 Standard are the recommended operating systems for new PCs. Windows 11 Professional is currently being tested for compatibility with GM applications. Once testing is complete, more communications will be distributed.

PCs in the Service Department

The Desktop, Laptop and Tablet computers matrix includes Operating Minimum – minimum acceptable capability/components – and Operating Recommended – capability/components that will deliver the best performance and security while maximizing the lifecycle of the investment. (Fig. 3) PCs used by technicians in the service bay should not be simply upgraded with a new operating system unless the PC processor is 7th generation or better. 8th generation and above processors are recommended.

All dealership computers must meet the minimum standard, including using the Windows 10 Professional OS, in order to receive assistance form the Techline Customer Support Center (TCSC).

Computers used in the service department for programming are recommended to have a hard drive size of 1 TB or larger in order to handle large calibration files.

For proper operation of Techline Connect apps, Local Windows Administrative access for software installation and updates is required. The DISG includes recommended firewall and security exceptions plus an alternative to full admin rights.

 

Fig. 3

 

GMDESolutions offers several laptop PCs meeting all GM specifications. The laptops also are pre-loaded with Techline Connect diagnostic software to help save time and effort at the dealership.

Techline Application Recommendations

Techline applications (Techline Connect, GDS 2, MDI Manager, MDI/MDI 2, Tech2Win, Data Bus Diagnostics Tool and Service Information) require additional computing power to perform appropriately during vehicle diagnosis and repairs.

The following recommendations are for all service technician applications:

  • Local Windows Administrative access for software installation and updates to Windows registry
  • One laptop for each technician performing service programming and vehicle diagnostics; otherwise, one for every two technicians
  • One MDI 2 for every Techline PC
  • One battery maintainer for every two MDI tools in use
  • Use of Tripp-Lite Keyspan USB-to-serial adapter (Model: USA – 19HS or USA – 19HS-C ) for computers without serial ports
  • Recommended Service Programming USB standard is FAT 32 – File Allocation 4096 (64KB), Size 16 or 32 GB, USB 2.0

Security Guidelines

The security guidelines included are the minimum set of security capabilities that should be in place to reasonably protect information and ensure it from loss, theft and unauthorized access. The guidelines provide recommendations for accounts, access, passwords and logins as well as firewalls and data security.

Firewall Exceptions

All application updates and installations must be performed from an account with Local Windows Administrative privileges. The DISG lists several firewall exceptions for Techline Connect applications:

View the New Guidelines

U.S. dealerships – To view the latest DISG (Fig. 4) as well as PCs for purchase, go to gmdesolutions.com and select the Dealer Services tab. Once you’ve input your BAC and zip code, select Techline IT Solutions from the Dealer Services menu.

Canadian Dealerships – The latest DISG can be found in the Dealer Security and Information Technology App on GM GlobalConnect.

 

Fig. 4

 

– Thanks to Lisa Scott

GM Service Know-How Emerging Issues
December Service Newsletter from the Experts at GM TAC

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*