Appendix A System Architecture

Communications

IDAPI

IPS applications use an interprocess communication API called the IDAPI to handle internal communications. The IDAPI reads and writes event data and provides a mechanism for control transactions. The IDAPI is the interface through which all the applications communicate.

The SensorApp captures and analyzes the network traffic on its interfaces. When a signature is matched, the SensorApp generates an alert, which is stored in the Event Store. If the signature is configured to perform the blocking response action, the SensorApp generates a block event, which is also stored in the Event Store.

Figure A-6illustrates the IDAPI interface.

Figure A-6

IDAPI

Alert

SensorApp Block

request

IDAPI

Alert

Block

request

Event Store

119096

Each application registers to the IDAPI to send and receive events and control transactions. The IDAPI provides the following services:

•Control transactions

–Initiates the control transaction.

–Waits for the inbound control transaction.

–Responds to the control transaction.

•IPS events

–Subscribes to remote IPS events, which are stored in the Event Store when received.

–Reads IPS events from the Event Store.

–Writes IPS events to the Event Store.

The IDAPI provides the necessary synchronization mechanisms to guarantee atomic data accesses.

IDIOM

IDIOM is a data format standard that defines the event messages that are reported by the IPS as well as the operational messages that are used to configure and control intrusion detection systems. These messages consist of XML documents that conform to the IDIOM XML schema.

IDIOM supports two types of interactions: event and control transaction. Event interactions are used to

exchange IPS events such as alerts. IDIOM uses two types of messages for event interactions: event and error messages. Control transactions provide a means for one host to initiate an action in, change the state of, or read the state of another host. Control transactions utilize four types of IDIOM messages: request, response, configuration, and error messages. Events and control transactions that are communicated between application instances within a host are known as local events or local control transactions, or collectively, local IDIOM messages. Events and control transactions that are communicated between different hosts are known as remote events and remote control transactions, or collectively, remote IDIOM messages.

Note IDIOM for the most part has been superseded by IDCONF, SDEE, and CIDEE.

 

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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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