Chapter 40

External Services Interface

The Dell External Services Interface (ESI) provides an open interface that is used to integrate security solutions that solve interior network problems such as viruses, worms, spyware, and corporate compliance. ESI allows selective redirection of traffic to external service appliances such as anti-virus gateways, content filters, and intrusion detection systems. When “interesting” traffic is detected by these external devices, it can be dropped, logged, modified, or transformed according to the rules of the device. ESI also permits configuration of different server groups—with each group potentially performing a different action on the traffic.

You can configure ESI to do one or more of the following for each group:

Redirect specified types of traffic to the server

Perform health checks on each of the servers in the group

Perform per-session load balancing between the servers in each group

Provide an interface for the server to return information about the client that can place the client in special roles such as “quarantine”

ESI also provides the ESI syslog parser, which is a mechanism for interpreting syslog messages from third-party appliances such as anti-virus gateways, content filters, and intrusion detection systems. The ESI syslog parser is a generic syslog parser that accepts syslog messages from external devices, processes them according to user-defined rules, and then takes configurable actions on system users.

Topics in this chapter include:

"Sample ESI Topology" on page 748

"Understanding the ESI Syslog Parser" on page 750

"Configuring ESI " on page 752

"Sample Route-mode ESI Topology" on page 760

"Sample NAT-mode ESI Topology" on page 766

"Understanding Basic Regular Expression (BRE) Syntax" on page 771

NOTE: The ESI feature requires the Policy Enforcement Firewall Next Generation (PEFNG) license installed on the controller.

Sample ESI Topology

In the example shown in this section, ESI is used to provide an interface to the AntiVirusFirewall (AVF) server device for providing virus inspection services. An AVF server device is one of many different types of services supported in the ESI.

Dell PowerConnect W-Series ArubaOS 6.2 User Guide

External Services Interface 748

Page 748
Image 748
Dell 6.2 manual Sample ESI Topology, External Services Interface

6.2 specifications

Dell 6.2 is an advanced enterprise solution that caters to the needs of businesses seeking robust performance and efficiency. As a part of Dell's commitment to innovation, the 6.2 series combines cutting-edge technologies and features that enhance productivity and deliver reliable computing experiences.

One of the standout features of the Dell 6.2 is its impressive processing power. Equipped with the latest Intel processors, it offers exceptional speed and multitasking capabilities. This allows businesses to run demanding applications effortlessly, making it ideal for data-intensive tasks such as data analysis, software development, and virtualization. The series also supports substantial RAM configurations, enabling users to manage extensive workloads without experiencing slowdowns.

In terms of storage, the Dell 6.2 line includes advanced SSD options that significantly boost data access speeds compared to traditional hard drives. This rapid access to information is vital for businesses that require quick retrieval of large datasets. Furthermore, the devices support RAID configurations, which enhances data redundancy and security, protecting critical business information from loss.

Connectivity is another critical aspect of the Dell 6.2 series. It includes multiple USB ports, HDMI outputs, and high-speed Ethernet options, ensuring that users can easily connect to various peripherals and networks. The integration of Wi-Fi 6 technology enables faster wireless connections, resulting in improved internet speeds and bandwidth efficiency, which is crucial in today’s increasingly connected workplaces.

Dell has also prioritized security in the 6.2 series. It features enhanced biometric authentication and advanced encryption methods, safeguarding sensitive data from unauthorized access. Additionally, the system's BIOS protection and automatic updates provide an added layer of security, ensuring that the device remains safe from emerging threats.

The design of the Dell 6.2 is not only sleek and modern but also built for durability. Its robust chassis is engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it suitable for various business environments. This durability ensures that the investment in Dell 6.2 will last for years while maintaining performance integrity.

In summary, the Dell 6.2 series embodies a blend of speed, storage efficiency, connectivity, and security, making it a top choice for enterprises looking to enhance their computing capabilities. With its modern features and durable design, Dell 6.2 is positioned as a reliable partner in driving business success.