Method and apparatus for active isolation of communications ports

A communication system comprising:

• a CPU;
• a first communication port in data communication with the CPU and adapted to communicate with external communication devices;
• at least a first data communication line adapted to convey a signal received from a first remote communication device at the first communication port, the signal conveyed towards the CPU for the purpose of initiating a request to interact with the CPU;
• a second communication port in data communication with the CPU;
• the CPU adapted to receive a command over the second communication port to isolate at least a first communication port under exclusive control of the second communication port for allowing subsequent commands provided to the CPU through the second communication port to be performed during a period of exclusive control of the CPU through the second communication port;
• the CPU adapted to respond to the command through the second communication port to isolate all other communications thereto by providing an output on at least one isolation signal communication line to at least a first active isolation circuit;
• the first active isolation circuit adapted to respond to the output on the at least one isolation signal communication line to prevent any communication attempting to initiate a request to interact with the CPU from being conveyed through the at least a first communication port and a first data communication line thereof to the CPU;
• whereby the command to isolate causes the CPU to prevent any communication conveyed through the at least a first communication port and a first data communication line thereof, and any other communication ports and communication lines, from being conveyed.