Chapter 23 Configuring QoS

Information About QoS

For traffic shaping, a token bucket permits burstiness but bounds it. It guarantees that the burstiness is bounded so that the flow will never send faster than the token bucket capacity, divided by the time interval, plus the established rate at which tokens are placed in the token bucket. See the following formula:

(token bucket capacity in bits / time interval in seconds) + established rate in bps = maximum flow speed in bps

This method of bounding burstiness also guarantees that the long-term transmission rate will not exceed the established rate at which tokens are placed in the bucket.

Information About Policing

Policing is a way of ensuring that no traffic exceeds the maximum rate (in bits/second) that you configure, thus ensuring that no one traffic flow or class can take over the entire resource. When traffic exceeds the maximum rate, the ASA drops the excess traffic. Policing also sets the largest single burst of traffic allowed.

Information About Priority Queuing

LLQ priority queuing lets you prioritize certain traffic flows (such as latency-sensitive traffic like voice and video) ahead of other traffic.

The ASA supports two types of priority queuing:

Standard priority queuing—Standard priority queuing uses an LLQ priority queue on an interface (see the “Configuring the Standard Priority Queue for an Interface” section on page 23-8), while all other traffic goes into the “best effort” queue. Because queues are not of infinite size, they can fill and overflow. When a queue is full, any additional packets cannot get into the queue and are dropped. This is called tail drop. To avoid having the queue fill up, you can increase the queue buffer size. You can also fine-tune the maximum number of packets allowed into the transmit queue. These options let you control the latency and robustness of the priority queuing. Packets in the LLQ queue are always transmitted before packets in the best effort queue.

Hierarchical priority queuing—Hierarchical priority queuing is used on interfaces on which you enable a traffic shaping queue. A subset of the shaped traffic can be prioritized. The standard priority queue is not used. See the following guidelines about hierarchical priority queuing:

Priority packets are always queued at the head of the shape queue so they are always transmitted ahead of other non-priority queued packets.

Priority packets are never dropped from the shape queue unless the sustained rate of priority traffic exceeds the shape rate.

For IPsec-encrypted packets, you can only match traffic based on the DSCP or precedence setting.

IPsec-over-TCP is not supported for priority traffic classification.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

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Cisco Systems ASA 5585-X, ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X manual Information About Policing, Information About Priority Queuing, 23-3

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.