Chapter 21 Configuring Cisco Intercompany Media Engine Proxy

Information About Cisco Intercompany Media Engine Proxy

Call Fallback to the PSTN

Cisco Intercompany Media Engine provides features that manage the QoS on the Internet, such as the ability to monitor QoS of the RTP traffic in real-time and fallback to PSTN automatically if problems arise. Call fallback from Internet VoIP calls to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) can occur for two reasons changes in connection quality and signal failure for the Cisco Intercompany Media Engine.

Internet connections can vary wildly in their quality and vary over time. Therefore, even if a call is sent over VoIP because the quality of the connection was good, the connection quality might worsen mid-call. To ensure an overall good experience for the end user, Cisco Intercompany Media Engine attempts to perform a mid-call fallback.

Performing a mid-call fallback requires the adaptive security appliance to monitor the RTP packets coming from the Internet and send information into an RTP Monitoring Algorithm (RMA) API, which will indicates to the adaptive security appliance whether fallback is required. If fallback is required, the adaptive security appliance sends a REFER message to Cisco UCM to tell it that it needs to fallback the call to PSTN.

The TLS signaling connections from the Cisco UCM are terminated on the adaptive security appliance and a TCP or TLS connection is initiated to the Cisco UCM. SRTP (media) sent from external IP phones to the internal network IP phone via the adaptive security appliance is converted to RTP. The adaptive security appliance inserts itself into the media path by modifying the SIP signaling messages that are sent over the SIP trunk between Cisco UCMs. TLS (signaling) and SRTP are always terminated on the adaptive security appliance.

If signaling problems occur, the call falls back to the PSTN; however, the Cisco UCM initiates the PSTN fall back and the adaptive security appliance does not send REFER message.

Architecture and Deployment Scenarios for Cisco Intercompany Media Engine

This section includes the following topics:

•Architecture, page 21-5

•Basic Deployment, page 21-6

•Off Path Deployment, page 21-7

Architecture

Within the enterprise, Cisco Intercompany Media Engine is deployed with the following components for the following purposes:

•The adaptive security appliance—Enabled with the Cisco Intercompany Media Engine Proxy, provides perimeter security functions and inspects SIP signaling between SIP trunks.

•Cisco Intercompany Media Engine (UC-IME) server— Located in the DMZ, provides an automated provisioning service by learning new VoIP routes to particular phone numbers, and recording those routes in Cisco UCM. The Cisco Intercompany Media Engine server does not perform call control.

•Cisco Unified Communications Manager (Cisco UCM)—Responsible for call control and processing. Cisco UCM connects to the Cisco Intercompany Media Engine server by using the Access Protocol to publish and exchange updates. The architecture can consist of a single Cisco UCM or a Cisco UCM cluster within the enterprise.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

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Cisco Systems ASA 5545-X, ASA 5505, ASA 5555-X, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5580 manual Call Fallback to the Pstn, Architecture, 21-5
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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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