Best practices for securing networks with FWSM



Understand the differences between PIX/ASA firewall and FWSM deployments
Review practical design and configuration advice for FWSM deployments
Maximize FWSM security features and reduce deployment time
Learn from coverage of the latest features and common installation best practices

The Firewall Services Module (FWSM) is a high-performance stateful-inspection firewall that integrates into the Cisco 6500 switch and 7600 router chassis. It monitors traffic flows using application inspection engines to provide a strong level of network security. The FWSM defines the security parameter and enables the enforcement of security policies through authentication, access-control lists, and protocol inspection. This is a key component to anyone deploying network security. Many customers have been deploying the firewall services module without specific knowledge on how it functions. They have taken their experience with the PIX firewall and applied it to the FWSM, but there are significant differences between the two products. Cisco Secure Firewall Services Module (FWSM) is designed to help understand how the FWSM functions and the differences between it and the PIX. It also helps you through the design, configuration, implementation, and administration of the FWSM by providing practical examples using best security practices.