Appendix A System Architecture

MainApp

Understanding the ARC

The main responsibility of the ARC is to block events. When it responds to a block, it either interacts with the devices it is managing directly to enable the block or it sends a block request through the Control Transaction Server to a master blocking sensor. The web server on the master blocking sensor receives the control transaction and passes it to the Control Transaction Server, which passes it to the ARC. The ARC on the master blocking sensor then interacts with the devices it is managing to enable the block.

Figure A-4illustrates the ARC.

Figure A-4 ARC

Sensor

Routers and Firewalls

 

 

 

Block

 

 

 

 

 

Subscription

 

Attack

 

Block Event

Response

 

 

 

IDAPI

Block

Subscription

Event Store

Block Event

Controller Block CT

Block CT

Block CT

Block CT

CT Source

Response

Master Blocking Sensor

Routers and Firewalls

Response

Block CT Block CT

Response

Attack

Response

Controller

Block CT

Block CT

Response

IDAPI

Block CT

Block CT

Response

Web Server

CT Server

143598

Note An ARC instance can control 0, 1, or many network devices. The ARC does not share control of any network device with other ARC applications, IPS management software, other network management software, or system administrators. Only one ARC instance is allowed to run on a given sensor.

The ARC initiates a block in response to one of the following:

An alert event generated from a signature that is configured with a block action

A block configured manually through the CLI, IDM, IME, or ASDM

A block configured permanently against a host or network address

When you configure the ARC to block a device, it initiates either a Telnet or SSH connection with the device. The ARC maintains the connection with each device. After the block is initiated, the ARC pushes a new set of configurations or ACLs (one for each interface direction) to each controlled device. When a block is completed, all configurations or ACLs are updated to remove the block.

 

 

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OL-29168-01

 

 

A-13

 

 

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual Understanding the ARC, Figure A-4illustrates the ARC

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.