Chapter 5 Configuring Virtual Sensors

Understanding the Analysis Engine

Understanding the Analysis Engine

The Analysis Engine performs packet analysis and alert detection. It monitors traffic that flows through specified interfaces.

You create virtual sensors in the Analysis Engine. Each virtual sensor has a unique name with a list of interfaces, inline interface pairs, inline VLAN pairs, and VLAN groups associated with it. To avoid definition ordering issues, no conflicts or overlaps are allowed in assignments. You assign interfaces, inline interface pairs, inline VLAN pairs, and VLAN groups to a specific virtual sensor so that no packet is processed by more than one virtual sensor. Each virtual sensor is also associated with a specifically named signature definition, event action rules, and anomaly detection configuration. Packets from interfaces, inline interface pairs, inline VLAN pairs, and VLAN groups that are not assigned to any virtual sensor are disposed of according to the inline bypass configuration.

Note The Cisco IPS does not support more than four virtual sensors. You cannot delete the default virtual sensor vs0.

Understanding Virtual Sensors

The sensor can receive data inputs from one or many monitored data streams. These monitored data streams can either be physical interface ports or virtual interface ports. For example, a single sensor can monitor traffic from in front of the firewall, from behind the firewall, or from in front of and behind the firewall concurrently. And a single sensor can monitor one or more data streams. In this situation a single sensor policy or configuration is applied to all monitored data streams.

A virtual sensor is a collection of data that is defined by a set of configuration policies. The virtual sensor is applied to a set of packets as defined by interface component.

A virtual sensor can monitor multiple segments, and you can apply a different policy or configuration for each virtual sensor within a single physical sensor. You can set up a different policy per monitored segment under analysis. You can also apply the same policy instance, for example, sig0, rules0, or ad0, to different virtual sensors. You can assign interfaces, inline interface pairs, inline VLAN pairs, and VLAN groups to a virtual sensor.

Note The default virtual sensor is vs0. You cannot delete the default virtual sensor. The interface list, the anomaly detection operational mode, the inline TCP session tracking mode, and the virtual sensor description are the only configuration features you can change for the default virtual sensor. You cannot change the signature definition, event action rules, or anomaly detection policies.

Advantages and Restrictions of Virtualization

Virtualization has the following advantages:

•You can apply different configurations to different sets of traffic.

•You can monitor two networks with overlapping IP spaces with one sensor.

•You can monitor both inside and outside of a firewall or NAT device.

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual Understanding the Analysis Engine, Understanding Virtual Sensors
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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.
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