Appendix A System Architecture

MainApp

ARC Features

The ARC has the following features:

•Communication through Telnet and SSH 1.5 with 3DES (the default) or DES encryption

Only the protocol specified in the ARC configuration for that device is attempted. If the connection fails for any reason, the ARC attempts to reestablish it.

•Preexisting ACLs on routers and VACLs on switches

If a preexisting ACL exists on a router interface or direction that is controlled by the ARC, you can specify that this ACL be merged into the ARC-generated configuration, either before any blocks by specifying a preblock ACL or after any blocks by specifying a postblock ACL. The Catalyst 6000 VACL device types can have a preblock and postblock VACL specified for each interface that the ARC controls. The firewall device types use a different API to perform blocks and the ARC does not have any effect on preexisting ACLs on the firewalls.

Note Catalyst 5000 RSM and Catalyst 6000 MSFC2 network devices are supported in the same way as Cisco routers.

•Forwarding blocks to a list of remote sensors

The ARC can forward blocks to a list of remote sensors, so that multiple sensors can in effect collectively control a single network device. Such remote sensors are referred to as master blocking sensors.

•Specifying blocking interfaces on a network device

You can specify the interface and direction where blocking is performed in the ARC configuration for routers. You can specify the interface where blocking is performed in the VACL configuration. The ARC can simultaneously control up to 250 interfaces.

Note Cisco firewalls do not block based on interface or direction, so this configuration is never specified for them.

•Blocking hosts or networks for a specified time

The ARC can block a host or network for a specified number of minutes or indefinitely. The ARC determines when a block has expired and unblocks the host or network at that time.

•Logging important events

The ARC writes a confirmation event when block or unblock actions are completed successfully or if any errors occur. The ARC also logs important events such as loss and recovery of a network device communication session, configuration errors, and errors reported by the network device.

•Maintaining the blocking state across ARC restarts

The ARC reapplies blocks that have not expired when a shutdown or restart occurs. The ARC removes blocks that have expired while it was shut down.

Note The ARC can only maintain the blocking state successfully if no one changes the system time while the application is shut down.

 

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual ARC Features
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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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