Appendix A System Architecture

SensorApp

Each TLS client has different procedures for establishing this trust. The sensor itself includes a TLS client that is used to send control transactions to other sensors and download upgrades and configuration files from other TLS web servers. Use the tls trusted-hostcommand to establish trust of the TLS servers with which the sensor communicates.

Similarly, the sensor includes an SSH client that is used to communicate with managed network devices, download upgrades, and copy configurations and support files to remote hosts. Use the ssh host-keycommand to establish trust relationships with the SSH servers the sensor will contact.

You can manage the list of TLS trusted certificates and SSH known hosts through the commands service trusted-certificatesand service ssh-known-hosts.

X.509 certificates include additional information that can increase the security of the trust relationship; however, these can lead to confusion. For example, an X.509 certificate includes a validity period during which the certificate can be trusted. Typically this period is a number of years starting at the moment the certificate is created. To ensure that an X.509 certificate is valid at the moment it is being used requires that the client system maintain an accurate clock.

X.509 certificates are also tied to a particular network address. Sensors fill this field with the IP address of the command and control interface of the sensor. Consequently, if you change the command and control IP address of the sensor, the X.509 certificate of the server is regenerated. You must reconfigure all clients on the network that trusted the old certificate to locate the sensor at its new IP address and trust the new certificate.

By using the SSH known hosts and TLS trusted certificates services in the AuthenticationApp, you can operate sensors at a high level of security.

Web Server

The web server provides SDEE support, which enables the sensor to report security events, receive IDIOM transactions, and serve IP logs. The web server supports HTTP 1.0 and 1.1. Communications with the web server often include sensitive information, such as passwords, that would severely compromise the security of the system if an attacker were able to eavesdrop. For this reason, sensors ship with TLS enabled. The TLS protocol is an encryption protocol that is compatible with SSL.

Note We deprecated the RDEP event sever service in IPS 6.1, and deleted it from the IPS 7.0(1) system architecture. The web server now uses the SDEE event server.

SensorApp

This section describes the SensorApp, and contains the following topics:

•Understanding the SensorApp, page A-23

•Inline, Normalization, and Event Risk Rating Features, page A-24

•SensorApp New Features, page A-25

•Packet Flow, page A-25

•Signature Event Action Processor, page A-26

 

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Sensor CLI Configuration Guide for IPS 7.2

A-22

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual SensorApp, Web Server
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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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