Dear ROC, CIC, and Site Managers,

since quite a while an authenticated version of R-GMA has been  
around. Up to now we have run R-GMA in a mode where the service could  
be used
with or without authorization.
As most of you are aware, in depth discussions between the grid  
security experts have taken place and it became clear that switching  
to the more secure authenticated  access will be a significant  
improvement.

We are  currently finishing our tests using R-GMA-5 and will start an  
upgrade shortly.

To prepare for this switch and make a smooth transition sites can do  
the following:

All sites:
get a host certificate for you Mon-box and archivers (we are not  
aware of any run outside CERN or RAL)

Large sites:
Due to the need to migrate clients and servers at the same time, it  
might help to run during the upgrade two R-GMA MON-boxes side by side.
This would allow to migrate without interrupting the service for an  
extended period. If you choose this path you might want to look for  
an additional machine.

We look forward to your comments, questions, and suggestions.


                           markus