AAA Prompts and Identity Firewall

Chapter 8 Configuring AAA Rules for Network Access

Configuring Authentication for Network Access

Note If you use HTTP authentication, by default the username and password are sent from the client to the ASA in clear text; in addition, the username and password are sent on to the destination web server as well. See the “Enabling Secure Authentication of Web Clients” section on page 8-8for information to secure your credentials.

For FTP, a user has the option of entering the ASA username followed by an at sign (@) and then the FTP username (name1@name2). For the password, the user enters the ASA password followed by an at sign (@) and then the FTP password (password1@password2). For example, enter the following text:

name> name1@name2

password> password1@password2

This feature is useful when you have cascaded firewalls that require multiple logins. You can separate several names and passwords by multiple at signs (@).

In an enterprise, some users log into the network by using other authentication mechanisms, such as authenticating with a web portal (cut-through proxy). For example, users with a Mac and Linux client might log into a web portal (cut-through proxy). Therefore, you must configure the identity firewall to allow these types of authentication in connection with identity-based access policies.

Figure 8-1shows a deployment to support a cut-through proxy authentication captive portal. Active Directory servers and the AD Agent are installed on the main site LAN. However, the identity firewall is configured to support authentication of clients that are not part of the Active Directory domain.

Figure 8-1 Deployment Supporting Cut-through Proxy Authentication

Windows Clients

(Domain Members)

WAN / LAN

HTTP/HTTPS

Non-domain Member

Clients

Inside Enterprise

ASA

RADIU

LDAP

mktg.sample.com

10.1.1.2

Agent

WMI

AD Agent

AD Servers

334548

The ASA designates users logging in through a web portal (cut-through proxy) as belonging to the Active Directory domain with which they authenticated.

The ASA reports users logging in through a web portal (cut-through proxy) to the AD Agent, which distributes the user information to all registered ASA devices. In this case, the identity firewall can associate the users with their Active Directory domain. Specifically, the user identity-IP address mappings of authenticated users are forwarded to all ASA contexts that contain the input interface where packets are received and authenticated.

Users can log in by using HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, Telnet, or SSH. When users log in with these authentication methods, the following guidelines apply:

•For HTTP/HTTPS traffic, an authentication window appears for unauthenticated users.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

8-4

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 5580, ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X, ASA 5555-X manual AAA Prompts and Identity Firewall

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