Chapter 1 Introducing the Sensor

How the Sensor Functions

VLAN Group Mode

Note

Note

Note

The ASA IPS modules (ASA 5500 AIP SSM, ASA 5500-X IPS SSP, and ASA 5585-X IPS SSP) do not support VLAN groups mode.

You can divide each physical interface or inline interface into VLAN group subinterfaces, each of which consists of a group of VLANs on that interface. Analysis Engine supports multiple virtual sensors, each of which can monitor one or more of these interfaces. This lets you apply multiple policies to the same sensor. The advantage is that now you can use a sensor with only a few interfaces as if it had many interfaces.

You cannot divide physical interfaces that are in inline VLAN pairs into VLAN groups.

VLAN group subinterfaces associate a set of VLANs with a physical or inline interface. No VLAN can be a member of more than one VLAN group subinterface. Each VLAN group subinterface is identified by a number between 1 and 255. Subinterface 0 is a reserved subinterface number used to represent the entire unvirtualized physical or logical interface. You cannot create, delete, or modify subinterface 0 and no statistics are reported for it.

An unassigned VLAN group is maintained that contains all VLANs that are not specifically assigned to another VLAN group. You cannot directly specify the VLANs that are in the unassigned group. When a VLAN is added to or deleted from another VLAN group subinterface, the unassigned group is updated.

Packets in the native VLAN of an 802.1q trunk do not normally have 802.1q encapsulation headers to identify the VLAN number to which the packets belong. A default VLAN variable is associated with each physical interface and you should set this variable to the VLAN number of the native VLAN or to 0. The value 0 indicates that the native VLAN is either unknown or you do not care if it is specified. If the default VLAN setting is 0, the following occurs:

•Any alerts triggered by packets without 802.1q encapsulation have a VLAN value of 0 reported in the alert.

•Non-802.1q encapsulated traffic is associated with the unassigned VLAN group and it is not possible to assign the native VLAN to any other VLAN group.

You can configure a port on a switch as either an access port or a trunk port. On an access port, all traffic is in a single VLAN is called the access VLAN. On a trunk port, multiple VLANs can be carried over the port, and each packet has a special header attached called the 802.1q header that contains the VLAN ID. This header is commonly referred as the VLAN tag. However, a trunk port has a special VLAN called the native VLAN. Packets in the native VLAN do not have the 802.1q headers attached.

Deploying VLAN Groups

Because a VLAN group of an inline pair does not translate the VLAN ID, an inline paired interface must exist between two switches to use VLAN groups on a logical interface. For an appliance, you can connect the two pairs to the same switch, make them access ports, and then set the access VLANs for the two ports differently. In this configuration, the sensor connects between two VLANs, because each of the two ports is in access mode and carries only one VLAN. In this case the two ports must be in different VLANs, and the sensor bridges the two VLANs, monitoring any traffic that flows between the two VLANs.

 

Cisco Intrusion Prevention System Appliance and Module Installation Guide for IPS 7.1

1-18

OL-24002-01

Page 37 Page 39
Page 38
Image 38
Cisco Systems IPS4520K9 manual Vlan Group Mode, Deploying Vlan Groups
Page 37 Page 39

IPS4520K9 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.
Top Page Image Contents