IP Addressing

To become part of an IP network, a network device must have an IP address. An IP address is a unique number that differentiates one device from another on the network to avoid confusion during communication. To help illustrate IP addresses, the following sections compare an IP address to the telephone numbering system, a system that is used every day.

Like a phone number with its long distance “1” and area code, an IP address contains a set of four numbers. While we separate phone number components with dashes, for example 1-408-555- 1212, IP address number components are separated by decimal points or dots (called dotted decimal notation), for example 123.45.67.89. Because computers use a binary number system, each number in the set must be less than 255.

There are three components of IP addressing:

•IP address

•Subnet mask

•Default gateway

IP Address

Just as each household or business requires a unique phone number, a networked device (such as a computer, printer, file server, or router) must have a unique IP address. Unlike phone numbers, an IP address requires the entire number when communicating with other devices.

There are three classes of IP addresses: A, B, and C. Like a main business phone number that one can call, and then be transferred through interchange numbers to an individual’s extension number, the different classes of IP addresses provide for varying levels of “interchanges” or subnetworks, and “extensions” or device numbers. The classes are based on estimated network size:

•Class A — used for very large networks with hundreds of subnetworks and thousands of devices. Class A networks use IP addresses between 0.0.0.0 and 127.0.0.0.

•Class B — used for medium to large networks with 10–100 subnetworks and hundreds of de- vices. Class B networks use IP addresses between 128.0.0.0 and 191.0.0.0.

•Class C — used for small to medium networks, usually with only a few subnetworks and less than 250 devices. Class C networks use IP addresses between 192.0.0.0 and 223.0.0.0.

Just as one would go to the phone company for a phone number, there are controlling bodies for IP addresses. The overall controlling body for IP addresses worldwide is InterNIC. Businesses or individuals can request one or many IP addresses from InterNIC. It’s a good idea to estimate the network’s future growth when requesting the class and number of IP addresses requested.

Appendices Page 265

Page 263 Page 265
Page 264
Image 264
SonicWALL Internet Security Appliances manual IP Addressing, IP address Subnet mask Default gateway
Page 263 Page 265

Internet Security Appliances specifications

SonicWALL Internet Security Appliances are pivotal solutions aimed at safeguarding networks from an ever-evolving array of cyber threats. Designed for small to medium-sized businesses, as well as enterprises, these appliances deliver robust security and high-performance capabilities.

One of the main features of SonicWALL Internet Security Appliances is their Unified Threat Management (UTM) functionality. This integrated approach allows organizations to manage multiple security measures, including firewall protection, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and antivirus capabilities, within a single device. This consolidation simplifies security management and reduces the risk of vulnerabilities from disparate systems.

Another significant technology found in these appliances is Application Control. This feature enables administrators to monitor and regulate the applications and services used within their networks, ensuring that bandwidth is allocated efficiently, and potentially harmful applications are blocked. Coupled with Content Filtering, SonicWALL offers granular policies to restrict access to inappropriate or non-work-related content, enhancing overall productivity while maintaining security.

SonicWALL appliances also utilize advanced cybersecurity technologies like SonicWall Capture Threat Assessment and Capture Advanced Threat Protection. These solutions leverage artificial intelligence to identify and remove sophisticated malware and ransomware threats before they infiltrate the network. This proactive approach ensures that only safe email and web traffic is allowed through, providing comprehensive protection against advanced persistent threats.

Moreover, SonicWALL’s Global Management System (GMS) enables centralized control over multiple security devices, making it easy for IT teams to maintain a consistent security posture across various locations. This capability is especially beneficial for organizations with distributed networks, as it provides real-time visibility into network activity and security incidents.

The appliances are also designed with scalability in mind. Whether an organization grows or needs to adjust its security policies, SonicWALL appliances can be updated, expanded, or modified without significant disruptions. This flexibility makes them a long-term investment for any business focused on network security.

In addition, SonicWALL's user-friendly interface simplifies the deployment and management processes. With intuitive dashboards and reporting tools, administrators can easily track security events, analyze network traffic patterns, and respond swiftly to potential threats.

In summary, SonicWALL Internet Security Appliances combine essential features like Unified Threat Management, Application Control, and advanced threat protection technologies into a cohesive security solution. Their scalability, centralized management capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces make them an excellent choice for businesses aiming to strengthen their cyber defenses in a complex digital landscape.
Top Page Image Contents