Chapter 14 Configuring Attack Response Controller for Blocking and Rate Limiting

Understanding Rate Limiting

How long you want the blocks to last.

Tip To check the status of the ARC, type show statistics network-accessat the sensor#. The output shows the devices you are managing, any active blocks and rate limits, and the status of all devices..

Note Rate limiting and blocking are not supported for IPv6 traffic. If a signature is configured with a block or rate limit event action and is triggered by IPv6 traffic, an alert is generated but the action is not carried out.

For More Information

For the procedure to add request-block-host or request-block-connection event actions to a signature, see Assigning Actions to Signatures, page 7-15.

For the procedure for configuring overrides that add the request-block-hostor request-block-connectionevent actions to alerts of a specific risk rating, see Adding, Editing, Enabling, and Disabling Event Action Overrides, page 8-17.

For more information on Pre- and Post-Block ACLs, see How the Sensor Manages Devices, page 14-21.

Understanding Rate Limiting

The ARC is responsible for rate limiting traffic in protected networks. Rate limiting lets sensors restrict the rate of specified traffic classes on network devices. Rate limit responses are supported for the Host Flood and Net Flood engines, and the TCP half-open SYN signature. The ARC can configure rate limits on network devices running Cisco IOS 12.3 or later. Master blocking sensors can also forward rate limit requests to blocking forwarding sensors.

To add a rate limit, you specify the following:

Source address and/or destination address for any rate limit

Source port and/or destination port for rate limits with TCP or UDP protocol

You can also tune rate limiting signatures. You must also set the action to request-rate-limitand set the percentage for these signatures.

Note Rate limiting and blocking are not supported for IPv6 traffic. If a signature is configured with a block or rate limit event action and is triggered by IPv6 traffic, an alert is generated but the action is not carried out.

Table 14-1lists the supported rate limiting signatures and parameters.

Table 14-1 Rate Limiting Signatures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Destination IP

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature ID

Signature Name

Protocol

Address Allowed

Data

 

 

 

 

 

 

2152

ICMP Flood Host

ICMP

Yes

echo-request

 

 

 

 

 

 

2153

ICMP Smurf Attack

ICMP

Yes

echo-reply

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14-4

 

 

 

 

 

 

OL-29168-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 Understanding Rate Limiting, Destination IP Signature ID Signature Name Protocol, Data, Icmp, 14-4

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.