Chapter 17 Configuring the Cisco Phone Proxy

Information About the Cisco Phone Proxy

Figure 17-1 Phone Proxy Secure Deployment

Trusted / Inside / Un-Secured

Un-trusted / Outside / Secured

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The phone proxy supports a Cisco UCM cluster in mixed mode or nonsecure mode. Regardless of the cluster mode, the remote phones that are capable of encryption are always forced to be in encrypted mode. TLS (signaling) and SRTP (media) are always terminated on the ASA. The ASA can also perform NAT, open pinholes for the media, and apply inspection policies for the SCCP and SIP protocols. In a nonsecure cluster mode or a mixed mode where the phones are configured as nonsecure, the phone proxy behaves in the following ways:

•The TLS connections from the phones are terminated on the ASA and a TCP connection is initiated to the Cisco UCM.

•SRTP sent from external IP phones to the internal network IP phone via the ASA is converted to RTP.

In a mixed mode cluster where the internal IP phones are configured as authenticated, the TLS connection is not converted to TCP to the Cisco UCM but the SRTP is converted to RTP.

In a mixed mode cluster where the internal IP phone is configured as encrypted, the TLS connection remains a TLS connection to the Cisco UCM and the SRTP from the remote phone remains SRTP to the internal IP phone.

Since the main purpose of the phone proxy is to make the phone behave securely while making calls to a nonsecure cluster, the phone proxy performs the following major functions:

•Creates the certificate trust list (CTL) file, which is used to perform certificate based authentication with remote phones.

•Modifies the IP phone configuration file when it is requested via TFTP, changes security fields from nonsecure to secure, and signs all files sent to the phone. These modifications secure remote phones by forcing the phones to perform encrypted signaling and media.

•Terminates TLS signaling from the phone and initiates TCP or TLS to Cisco UCM

•Inserts itself into the media path by modifying the Skinny and SIP signaling messages.

•Terminates SRTP and initiates RTP/SRTP to the called party.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

17-2

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Cisco Systems ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X, ASA 5555-X, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5580, ASA Services Module manual 17-2, Tcp/Rtp Tls/Srtp
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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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