Chapter 3 Setting Up the Sensor

Configuring Authentication and User Parameters

You can also configure the sensor to use local authentication (local fallback) if no RADIUS servers are responding. In this case, the sensor authenticates against the locally configured user accounts. The sensor will only use local authentication if the RADIUS servers are not available, not if the RADIUS server rejects the authentication requests of the user. You can also configure how users connected through the console port are authenticated—through local user accounts, through RADIUS first and if that fails through local user accounts, or through RADIUS alone.

To configure a RADIUS server, you must have the IP address, port, and shared secret of the RADIUS server. You must also either have the NAS-ID of the RADIUS server, or have the RADIUS server configured to authenticate clients without a NAS-ID or with the default IPS NAS-ID of cisco-ips.

Note Enabling RADIUS authentication on the sensor does not disconnect already established connections. RADIUS authentication is only enforced for new connections to the sensor. Existing CLI, IDM, and IME connections remain established with the login credentials used prior to configuring RADIUS authentication. To force disconnection of these established connections, you must reset the sensor after RADIUS is configured.

RADIUS Authentication Options

Use the aaa command in service aaa submode to configure either local authentication or authentication using a RADIUS server.

The following options apply:

•local—Lets you specify local authentication. To continue to create users, use the password command.

•radius—Lets you specify RADIUS as the method of authentication:

–nas-id—Identifies the service requesting authentication. The value can be no nas-id, cisco-ips, or a NAS-ID already configured on the RADIUS server. The default is cisco-ips.

–default-user-role—Lets you assign a default user role on the sensor that is only applied when there is NOT a Cisco av pair specifying the user role. The value can be unspecified, viewer, operator, or administrator. Service cannot be the default user role. The default is unspecified.

If you do not want to configure a default user role on the sensor that is applied in the absence of a Cisco av pair, you need to configure the Cisco IOS/PIX 6.x RADIUS Attributes [009\001] cisco-av-pair under the group or user profile with one of the following options: ips-role=viewer, ips-role=operator, ips-role=administrator, ips-role=service,or ips-role=unspecified. The default is ips-role=unspecified.

Note If the sensor is not configured to use a default user role and the sensor user role information in not in the Accept Message of the CiscoSecure ACS server, the sensor rejects RADIUS authentication even if the CiscoSecure ACS server accepts the username and password.

Note The default user role is used only when the user has not been configured with a specific role on the ACS server. Local users are always configured with a specific role so the default user role will never apply to locally authenticated users.

–local-fallback {enabled disabled}—Lets you default to local authentication if the RADIUS servers are not responding. The default is enabled.

 

 

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Cisco Systems IPS4510K9 manual Radius Authentication Options
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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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