Chapter 3. Getting Started with the ASAPIX Security Appliance

Chapter 3. Getting Started with the ASA/PIX Security Appliance

This chapter examines the following introductory aspects of the ASA/PIX Security Appliance:

• Cisco ASA/PIX Security Appliance Overview This section provides you with general information regarding the ASA/PIX Security Appliance. It explains the specific security features of the product and the protection that it offers.

• ASA/PIX Security Appliance Models This section introduces the entire ASA/PIX Security Appliance family line that is capable of running the ASA/PIX version 7 operating system.

• Installing the ASA/PIX Security Appliance Hardware This section provides a step-by-step guide for powering and connecting the ASA/PIX Security Appliance.

• Installing the ASA/PIX Version 7 Operating System Software This section provides a step-by-step guide to install the ASA/PIX version 7 operating system and the Adaptive Security Device Manager (ASDM) 5.0.

This chapter covers ASA/PIX Security Appliance hardware and software information. The PIX Firewall is the industry leading firewall device as measured by the Gartner Group and many other organizations that track market share for security devices. The ASA Security Appliance nicely complements and also extends the PIX Firewall functionality with attractive speeds, features, and functions.

Cisco offers ASA/PIX Security Appliance models varying from the PIX 515/E and ASA 5500 for small to medium businesses to the PIX 535 designed for large enterprise and service provider class networks.