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Chapter 29 Configuring Filtering Services

Filtering URLs and FTP Requests with an External Server

•Enter the number of seconds after which the request to the URL filtering server times out. The default is 30 seconds.

•In the Protocol area, to specify which TCP version to use to communicate with the URL filtering server, click one of the following radio buttons:

–TCP 1

–TCP 4

–UDP 4

•Enter the maximum number of TCP connections allowed for communicating with the URL filtering server, and click OK.

The new Websense URL filtering server properties appear in the URL Filtering Servers pane. To change these properties, click Edit. To add more Websense URL filtering servers after you have added the first Websense URL filtering server, click Add or Insert. To remove a Websense URL filtering server, click Delete.

If you chose the Secure Computing SmartFilter URL Filtering option, the Add Parameters for Secure Computing SmartFilter URL Filtering dialog box appears.

•Choose the interface on which the URL filtering server is connected from the drop-down list.

•Enter the IP address of the URL filtering server.

•Enter the number of seconds after which the request to the URL filtering server times out. The default is 30 seconds.

•In the Protocol area, to specify which protocol type to use to communicate with the URL filtering server, click one of the following radio buttons:

–TCP

–UDP

•Enter the maximum number of TCP connections allowed for communicating with the URL filtering server, and click OK.

The new Secure Computing SmartFilter URL filtering server properties appear in the URL Filtering Servers pane. To change these properties, click Edit. To add more Secure Computing SmartFilter URL filtering servers after you have defined the first Secure Computing SmartFilter URL filtering server, click Add or Insert. To remove a Secure Computing SmartFilter URL filtering server, click Delete.

Configuring Additional URL Filtering Settings

After you have accessed a website, the filtering server can allow the ASA to cache the server address for a certain period of time, as long as each website hosted at the address is in a category that is permitted at all times. When you access the server again, or if another user accesses the server, the ASA does not need to consult the filtering server again to obtain the server address.

Note Requests for cached IP addresses are not passed to the filtering server and are not logged. As a result, this activity does not appear in any reports.

This section describes how to configure additional URL filtering settings and includes the following topics:

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

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 5580, ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X Configuring Additional URL Filtering Settings, 29-4

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