Describing the functions of Cisco network security systems

In this section, you will learn about various Cisco security solutions and how they are used to protect an enterprise network and its users from cyber-attacks and threats.

Firewall

A firewall is a security appliance that is designed to prevent malicious traffic from entering or leaving a network. Cisco's Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) is designed to offer the latest protection to users by inspecting all inbound and outbound network traffic. It is important that organizations realize the need for this security appliance as it is typically implemented at the network perimeter, as shown in the following diagram:

Figure 2.24 – Firewall deployment

Firewalls are not only implemented at the network perimeter; they are also implemented with networks to provide advanced filtering of traffic. Furthermore, NGFWs are designed to provide additional security services, such as Data Leakage Prevention...