Method and system for authenticating an accessory

A method, system, and connector interface for authenticating an accessory. A method includes performing an authentication operation and allowing the accessory to access the media player during the authentication operation; if the authentication operation fails, the accessory is locked out from any further access to the media player. The authentication operation can include, e.g., validating authentication information included in an authentication certificate provided by the accessory and/or validating a digital signature provided by the accessory. The media player and accessory may utilize a plurality of commands in a variety of environments such as within a connector interface system environment to control access to the media player.