One-Time Authentication

Chapter 8 Configuring AAA Rules for Network Access

Configuring Authentication for Network Access

A user at a given IP address only needs to authenticate one time for all rules and types, until the authentication session expires. (See the Configuration > Firewall > Advanced > Global Timeouts pane for timeout values.) For example, if you configure the ASA to authenticate Telnet and FTP, and a user first successfully authenticates for Telnet, then as long as the authentication session exists, the user does not also have to authenticate for FTP.

Applications Required to Receive an Authentication Challenge

Although you can configure the ASA to require authentication for network access to any protocol or service, users can authenticate directly with HTTP, HTTPS, Telnet, or FTP only. A user must first authenticate with one of these services before the ASA allows other traffic requiring authentication.

The authentication ports that the ASA supports for AAA are fixed as follows:

•Port 21 for FTP

•Port 23 for Telnet

•Port 80 for HTTP

•Port 443 for HTTPS

ASA Authentication Prompts

For Telnet and FTP, the ASA generates an authentication prompt.

For HTTP, the ASA uses basic HTTP authentication by default, and provides an authentication prompt. You can optionally configure the ASA to redirect users to an internal web page where they can enter their username and password (configured in the Configuration > Firewall > AAA Rules > Advanced > AAA Rules Advanced Options dialog box; see the “Enabling the Redirection Method of Authentication for HTTP and HTTPS” section on page 8-7).

For HTTPS, the ASA generates a custom login screen. You can optionally configure the ASA to redirect users to an internal web page where they can enter their username and password (configured in the Configuration > Firewall > AAA Rules > Advanced > AAA Rules Advanced Options dialog box; see the “Enabling the Redirection Method of Authentication for HTTP and HTTPS” section on page 8-7).

Redirection is an improvement over the basic method because it provides an improved user experience during authentication, and an identical user experience for HTTP and HTTPS in both Easy VPN and firewall modes. It also supports authentication directly with the ASA.

You might want to continue to use basic HTTP authentication for the following reasons:

•You do not want the ASA to open listening ports.

•You use NAT on a router and you do not want to create a translation rule for the web page served by the ASA.

•Basic HTTP authentication might work better with your network.

For example non-browser applications, as when a URL is embedded in e-mail, might be more compatible with basic authentication.

After you authenticate correctly, the ASA redirects you to your original destination. If the destination server also has its own authentication, the user enters another username and password. If you use basic HTTP authentication and need to enter another username and password for the destination server, then you need to configure virtual HTTP (see the Configuration >Firewall > Advanced Options > Virtual Access pane).

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

8-3

ASA Services Module, ASA 5555-X, ASA 5545-X, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5580 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in the field of network security, and its Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) series is a testament to this expertise. Within the ASA lineup, models such as the ASA 5505, ASA 5580, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5545-X, and ASA 5555-X stand out for their unique features, capabilities, and technological advancements.

The Cisco ASA 5505 is designed for small businesses or branch offices. It provides essential security features such as firewall protection, flexible VPN capabilities, and intrusion prevention. The ASA 5505 supports a user-friendly interface, allowing for straightforward management. Its built-in threat detection and prevention tools provide a layered defense, and with scalability in mind, it can accommodate various expansion options as organizational needs grow.

Moving up the line, the ASA 5580 delivers greater throughput and advanced security features. This model is suited for medium to large enterprises that require robust protection against increasingly sophisticated threats. Its multi-core architecture allows it to manage high volumes of traffic seamlessly while maintaining excellent performance levels. The ASA 5580 also supports application-layer security and customizable access policies, making it highly adaptable to diverse security environments.

The ASA 5585-X further enhances Cisco's security offerings with advanced malware protection and extensive security intelligence capabilities. It incorporates next-generation firewall features, including context-aware security, and supports advanced threat detection technologies. This model is ideal for large enterprises or data centers that prioritize security while ensuring uninterrupted network performance and availability.

For enterprises requiring a balance of performance and security, the ASA 5545-X presents a compelling option. This model features scalable performance metrics, high availability, and integrated advanced threat protection. Coupled with advanced endpoint protection and detailed monitoring capabilities, the ASA 5545-X enables organizations to manage their security posture effectively.

Lastly, the ASA 5555-X blends cutting-edge technologies with strong security infrastructures. It boasts high throughput and the ability to execute deep packet inspections. Its sophisticated architecture supports threat intelligence feeds that provide real-time security updates, making it a powerful tool against modern threats.

Each of these Cisco ASA models brings specific advantages to varied environments. Their integrative capabilities enable businesses to enhance their security postures while benefiting from seamless scalability and management. As cybersecurity threats evolve, these advanced appliances play a vital role in protecting valuable digital assets.

Cisco Systems ASA 5585-X, ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X One-Time Authentication, ASA Authentication Prompts

Models: ASA Services Module ASA 5555-X ASA 5545-X ASA 5585-X ASA 5580 ASA 5505