Chapter 11 Configuring Inspection of Basic Internet Protocols

SMTP and Extended SMTP Inspection

Other extended SMTP commands, such as ATRN, ONEX, VERB, CHUNKING, and private extensions and are not supported. Unsupported commands are translated into Xs, which are rejected by the internal server. This results in a message such as “500 Command unknown: 'XXX'.” Incomplete commands are discarded.

The ESMTP inspection engine changes the characters in the server SMTP banner to asterisks except for the “2”, “0”, “0” characters. Carriage return (CR) and linefeed (LF) characters are ignored.

With SMTP inspection enabled, a Telnet session used for interactive SMTP may hang if the following rules are not observed: SMTP commands must be at least four characters in length; must be terminated with carriage return and line feed; and must wait for a response before issuing the next reply.

An SMTP server responds to client requests with numeric reply codes and optional human-readable strings. SMTP application inspection controls and reduces the commands that the user can use as well as the messages that the server returns. SMTP inspection performs three primary tasks:

•Restricts SMTP requests to seven basic SMTP commands and eight extended commands.

•Monitors the SMTP command-response sequence.

•Generates an audit trail—Audit record 108002 is generated when invalid character embedded in the mail address is replaced. For more information, see RFC 821.

SMTP inspection monitors the command and response sequence for the following anomalous signatures:

•Truncated commands.

•Incorrect command termination (not terminated with <CR><LR>).

•The MAIL and RCPT commands specify who are the sender and the receiver of the mail. Mail addresses are scanned for strange characters. The pipeline character () is deleted (changed to a blank space) and “<” ‚”>” are only allowed if they are used to define a mail address (“>” must be preceded by “<”).

•Unexpected transition by the SMTP server.

•For unknown commands, the ASA changes all the characters in the packet to X. In this case, the server generates an error code to the client. Because of the change in the packed, the TCP checksum has to be recalculated or adjusted.

•TCP stream editing.

•Command pipelining.

Select ESMTP Map

The Select ESMTP Map dialog box is accessible as follows:

Add/Edit Service Policy Rule Wizard > Rule Actions >

Protocol Inspection Tab >Select ESMTP Map

The Select ESMTP Map dialog box lets you select or create a new ESMTP map. An ESMTP map lets you change the configuration values used for ESMTP application inspection. The Select ESMTP Map table provides a list of previously configured maps that you can select for application inspection.

Fields

•Use the default ESMTP inspection map—Specifies to use the default ESMTP map.

•Select an ESMTP map for fine control over inspection—Lets you select a defined application inspection map or add a new one.

•Add—Opens the Add Policy Map dialog box for the inspection.

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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.
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