Understanding SSH

Chapter 3 Setting Up the Sensor

Configuring SSH

•Adding Authorized RSA1 and RSA2 Keys, page 3-48

•Generating the RSA Server Host Key, page 3-49

SSH provides strong authentication and secure communications over channels that are not secure. SSH encrypts your connection to the sensor and provides a key so you can validate that you are connecting to the correct sensor. SSH also provides authenticated and encrypted access to other devices that the sensor connects to for blocking. The IPS supports managing both SSHv1 and SSHv2. The default is SSHv2, but you can configure the sensor to fallback to SSHv1 if the peer client/server does not support SSHv2.

SSH authenticates the hosts or networks using one or both of the following:

•Password

•User RSA public key

Note SSH never sends passwords in clear text.

SSH protects against the following:

•IP spoofing—A remote host sends out packets pretending to come from another trusted host.

Note SSH even protects against a spoofer on the local network who can pretend he is your router to the outside.

•IP source routing—A host pretends an IP packet comes from another trusted host.

•DNS spoofing—An attacker forges name server records.

•Interception of clear text passwords and other data by intermediate hosts.

•Manipulation of data by those in control of intermediate hosts.

•Attacks based on listening to X authentication data and spoofed connection to the X11 server.

Adding Hosts to the SSH Known Hosts List

You must add hosts to the SSH known hosts list so that the sensor can recognize the hosts that it can communicate with through SSH. These hosts are SSH servers that the sensor needs to connect to for upgrades and file copying, and other hosts, such as Cisco routers, firewalls, and switches that the sensor will connect to for blocking.

For SSHv1, use the ssh host-keyip-address rsa1-key[key-modulus-length public-exponent public-modulus]command to add an entry to the known hosts list. If you do not know the values for the modulus, exponent, and length, the system displays the bubble babble for the requested IP address. You can then choose to add the key to the list. To modify a key for an IP address, the entry must be removed and recreated. Use the no form of the command to remove the entry.

	Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2
3-46	OL-29168-01

IPS4510K9 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leading player in network security, and its IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) series is a testament to its commitment to safeguarding digital environments. Among its notable offerings are the IPS4510K9 and IPS4520K9 models, both designed to provide advanced threat protection for mid-sized to large enterprise networks.

The Cisco IPS4510K9 and IPS4520K9 are distinguished by their cutting-edge features that help organizations defend against a myriad of cyber threats. These systems utilize a multi-layered approach to security, integrating intrusion prevention, advanced malware protection, and comprehensive visibility across the network.

One of the primary characteristics of the IPS4510K9 is its high performance. It boasts a throughput of up to 1 Gbps, making it suitable for environments that demand rapid data processing and real-time responses to threats. The IPS4520K9, on the other hand, enhances that capability with improved throughput of up to 2 Gbps, accommodating larger enterprises with heavier network traffic. These models are equipped with powerful processors that support complex signature matching and can intelligently distinguish between legitimate traffic and potential threats.

In addition to performance, both models are designed with scalability in mind. They can be easily integrated into existing Cisco infrastructures. This facilitates a seamless enhancement of security without causing significant interruptions to ongoing operations. Moreover, they offer flexible deployment options, allowing organizations to operate them inline or out of band depending on their specific needs.

The Cisco IPS4510K9 and IPS4520K9 leverage advanced detection technologies, utilizing a variety of signature types and heuristic analysis to detect known and unknown threats effectively. They are equipped with real-time alerting and reporting capabilities, giving security teams immediate visibility into potential breaches and enabling them to respond swiftly.

Furthermore, both models support a range of management options through the Cisco Security Manager, allowing for centralized administration, streamlined policy management, and enhanced monitoring capabilities. Automated updates ensure the systems remain current with the latest threat intelligence, vital for staying ahead of evolving cyber threats.

In summary, the Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 and IPS4520K9 represent powerful solutions for organizations seeking robust intrusion prevention capabilities. With their high performance, scalability, and advanced detection technologies, these systems are essential tools in the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity, providing enterprises with the peace of mind needed to operate securely in today's digital world.

Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual Understanding SSH, Adding Hosts to the SSH Known Hosts List

Models: IPS4510K9