Introducing the IPS Appliance

Chapter 1 Introducing the Sensor

IPS Appliances

Note The currently supported Cisco IPS appliances are the IPS 4240, IPS 4255, and IPS 4260 [IPS 7.0(x) and later and IPS 7.1(5) and later], IPS 4270-20 [IPS 7.1(3) and later], IPS 4345 and IPS 4360 [IPS 7.1(3) and later], and IPS 4510 and IPS 4520 [IPS 7.1(4) and later].

The IPS appliance is a high-performance, plug-and-play device. The appliance is a component of the IPS, a network-based, real-time intrusion prevention system. You can use the IPS CLI, IDM, IME, ASDM, or CSM to configure the appliance. For a list of IPS documents and how to access them, refer to Documentation Roadmap for Cisco Intrusion Prevention System 7.1.

You can configure the appliance to respond to recognized signatures as it captures and analyzes network traffic. These responses include logging the event, forwarding the event to the manager, performing a TCP reset, generating an IP log, capturing the alert trigger packet, and reconfiguring a router. The appliance offers significant protection to your network by helping to detect, classify, and stop threats including worms, spyware and adware, network viruses, and application abuse.

After being installed at key points in the network, the appliance monitors and performs real-time analysis of network traffic by looking for anomalies and misuse based on an extensive, embedded signature library. When the system detects unauthorized activity, appliances can terminate the specific connection, permanently block the attacking host, log the incident, and send an alert to the manager. Other legitimate connections continue to operate independently without interruption.

Appliances are optimized for specific data rates and are packaged in Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet configurations. In switched environments, appliances must be connected to the SPAN port or VACL capture port of the switch.

The Cisco IPS appliances provide the following:

•Protection of multiple network subnets through the use of up to eight interfaces

•Simultaneous, dual operation in both promiscuous and inline modes

•A wide array of performance options—from 80 Mbps to multiple gigabits

•Embedded web-based management solutions packaged with the sensor

For More Information

•For a list of supported appliances, see Supported Sensors, page 1-19.

•For a description of the IPS 4240 and IPS 4255, see Chapter 3, “Installing the IPS 4240 and IPS 4255.”

•For a description of the IPS 4270-20, see Chapter 5, “Installing the IPS 4270-20.”

•For a description of the IPS 4345 and IPS 4360, see Chapter 6, “Installing the IPS 4345 and IPS 4360.”

•For a description of the IPS 4510 and IPS 4520, see Chapter 7, “Installing the IPS 4510 and IPS 4520.”

•For a description of the ASA 5500 AIP SSM, see Chapter 8, “Installing and Removing the ASA 5500 AIP SSM.”

•For a description of the ASA 5585-X IPS SSP, see Chapter 9, “Installing and Removing the ASA 5585-X IPS SSP.”

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

OL-24002-01		1-21
OL-24002-01		1-21

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.

Cisco Systems IPS4520K9 manual Introducing the IPS Appliance

Models: IPS4520K9