MAC Exempt No MAC Exempt | Cisco Systems ASA 5545-X, ASA 5505

Chapter 8 Configuring AAA Rules for Network Access

Using MAC Addresses to Exempt Traffic from Authentication and Authorization

of these users, you can enable AAA to allow only authenticated and/or authorized users to connect through the ASA. (The Telnet server enforces authentication, too; the ASA prevents unauthorized users from attempting to access the server.)

Using MAC Addresses to Exempt Traffic from Authentication and Authorization

The ASA can exempt from authentication and authorization any traffic from specific MAC addresses.

For example, if the ASA authenticates TCP traffic originating on a particular network but you want to allow unauthenticated TCP connections from a specific server, you would use a MAC exempt rule to exempt from authentication and authorization any traffic from the server specified by the rule. This feature is particularly useful to exempt devices such as IP phones that cannot respond to authentication prompts.

The order of entries matters, because the packet uses the first entry it matches, instead of a best match scenario. If you have a permit entry, and you want to deny an address that is allowed by the permit entry, be sure to enter the deny entry before the permit entry.

To use MAC addresses to exempt traffic from authentication and authorization, perform the following steps:

Step 1 In the Configuration > Firewall > AAA Rules pane, choose Add > Add MAC Exempt Rule.

The Add MAC Exempt Rule dialog box appears.

Step 2 In the Action drop-down list, click one of the following options, depending on the implementation:

•MAC Exempt

•No MAC Exempt

The MAC Exempt option allows traffic from the MAC address without having to authenticate or authorize. The No MAC Exempt option specifies a MAC address that is not exempt from authentication or authorization. You might need to add a deny entry if you permit a range of MAC addresses using a MAC address mask such as ffff.ffff.0000, and you want to force a MAC address in that range to be authenticated and authorized.

Step 3 In the MAC Address field, specify the source MAC address in 12-digit hexadecimal form; that is, nnnn.nnnn.nnnn.

Step 4 In the MAC Mask field, specify the portion of the MAC address that should be used for matching. For example, ffff.ffff.ffff matches the MAC address exactly. ffff.ffff.0000 matches only the first 8 digits.

Step 5 Click OK.

The Add MAC Exempt Rule dialog box closes and the rule appears in the AAA Rules table.

Step 6 Click Apply.

The changes are saved to the running configuration.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

8-19

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 5545-X, ASA 5505, ASA 5555-X, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5580 manual MAC Exempt No MAC Exempt

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