Increasing Security with Cisco Switches: Best Practices
Enhancing network security at the workplace is critical for businesses, and those businesses that deal with public data and personal information need to be more careful. Using Cisco switches is one of the most effective ways to create a secure and dependable network architecture. Cisco provides a powerful collection of security measures that, when correctly configured, may help guard against many typical assaults.
It is important to understand the features of Cisco switches properly to make the most of them. Below, we have discussed impressive features of Cisco switches and best practices for ensuring network security.
Features of Cisco Switches
VLAN Support
Cisco switches provide robust virtual LAN (VLAN) support, allowing network administrators to logically segment the network. This function increases network security, network efficiency, and management. VLANs allow for the segregation of broadcast domains, reducing needless traffic and providing a scalable network architecture solution.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Prioritizing network traffic is crucial for guaranteeing optimal performance, particularly in situations with a wide range of data types. Cisco switches include Quality of Service (QoS) features that allow managers to prioritize specific types of traffic over others. This makes sure that bandwidth is utilized efficiently, enhancing the experience for users of vital services and apps.
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Cisco switches offer Power over Ethernet (PoE), a feature that allows data and electrical power to be transmitted over Ethernet connections at the same time. This is especially useful for devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, as it eliminates the need for separate power supplies. PoE simplifies installation, eliminates cable clutter, and increases network deployment flexibility.
Port Security
Security is a top priority in network administration. Cisco switches include port security capabilities that enable administrators to restrict access to certain switch ports. This involves limiting the number of devices that can connect to a port, as well as lowering the dangers of illegal access and potential security breaches.
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
Cisco switches use the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to minimize network loops and ensure redundancy without triggering broadcast storms. STP detects the most efficient channels inside a network and blocks redundant ones, ensuring network stability and availability. This functionality is critical for preventing interruptions caused by loops in complicated network topologies.
Practical Network Infrastructure Security Tips
While Cisco switches provide a comprehensive set of security capabilities, their efficacy is dependent on planned implementation and continuous maintenance. These useful recommendations will help to strengthen network security.
1. Apply Firmware Upgrades on a Regular Basis
Keep your Cisco switches up to date by applying firmware upgrades on a regular basis. Manufacturers release updates to close security flaws and enhance security features. Keeping your firmware up to date guarantees that your switches are ready to address emerging threats.
2. Follow the Least Privilege Principle
When configuring switch access, follow the notion of least privilege. Assign the bare minimum of access required for people and devices to complete their duties. By removing unneeded access points, this reduces the potential effect of a security breach.
3. Conduct Regular Security Audits
Conduct regular security audits to detect vulnerabilities and evaluate the effectiveness of the security measures in place. Audits can reveal misconfigurations, illegal devices, or out-of-date security policies that could endanger the network.
4. Educate Users on Best Security Practices
Human error plays a big role in security events. Educate users on best practices for security, such as identifying phishing attempts, protecting login passwords, and reporting unusual activity. A knowledgeable user base is an important line of defense.
5. Create and Implement Security Policies
Create complete security policies for your network, including user authentication, data encryption, and device access. To create a secure and standardized network environment, regularly enforce these regulations.
Organizations can improve their defenses against an ever-changing landscape of cyber threats by recognizing these elements and applying best practices.
Always remember that security is a constant process of vigilance, adaptability, and education, rather than a one-time effort. With Cisco switches as the foundation for your network security strategy, you can confidently navigate the digital world while protecting your data and preserving the efficient operation of business processes.
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How many Cisco licenses do I need and why?
If you are running a business or have Cisco hardware appliances at home, the one question you will certainly ask is whether you need Cisco licenses for using its hardware appliances and if yes, then how many licenses you need for them. In reality, you need to understand more than the number of Cisco licenses you need.
In this guide, we will explain Cisco licensing for Cisco appliances in detail and help you find the answers to the questions that you have related to Cisco licenses.
Do I need Cisco licenses for using Cisco hardware appliances?
Yes, you need Cisco licenses for using Cisco switches and other hardware appliances, such as firewall security appliances. So, if you have or you are going to buy Cisco switches online or offline, it is a must for you to understand what and how many licenses you will need.
What kind of licensing do I need for using Cisco hardware?
All Cisco hardware appliances come with unique serial numbers. Typically, Cisco offers perpetual licenses which are unique to each serial number.
You can buy a perpetual license once and use this license throughout the time you are using the hardware for which this license is issued.
Once you replace the hardware, the license becomes obsolete. This means the new replacement hardware will need its own set of license(s).
However, if you RMA (return merchandise authorization) the hardware appliance, you are allowed for a one-time transfer of that license to the new hardware. This is the only exception where you can transfer a license. Otherwise, in all other cases, you will have to buy a new license for new hardware.
In addition to the perpetual licensing model, you may also need to buy separate licenses for certain software features and services. The licenses used for software features and services are distinct from the perpetual licenses for hardware and they require their own support contracts.
For instance, if you want to activate Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) feature for your firewall, you will need a software license or entitlement before using it. In this case, one Cisco firewall device can have two or more support contracts or licenses associated with it. One will be for the hardware failure and the underlying operating system and another for the software support and updates that are specific to IPS.
Such licenses are generally called add-on licenses. The add-on licenses provide Cisco innovations on its hardware appliances and also on the Cisco Digital Network Architecture Center (the Cisco DNA Center).
What Happens If the Cisco Support Lapse and I Still Keep Cisco Licensing?
If you happen to let the Cisco support lapse due to any reason and still have the Cisco license, the core module of the service or feature will continue to work the same but it won’t receive the latest threat updates, leaving your business’s cybersecurity more vulnerable to new threats and attacks. Plus, you will also not be able to contact Cisco support (TAC) to get any assistance with the relevant software module. So, it is highly recommended to keep both the Cisco support and licensing.
How many Cisco licenses do I need for my home or business?
The number of Cisco licenses you need depends on the number of Cisco devices that you have and the services and features you need to activate in those devices. At a very basic level, the number of Cisco licenses should be equal to the number of Cisco devices you have.
For instance, if you are using 10 Cisco switches in your office, you will have at least 10 Cisco licenses to use them and get proper hardware support. Now, assume you have activated a service or special feature in all these switches called network stacking. Then, you will need 10 perpetual licenses and 10 network stack licenses in total.
For some Cisco hardware appliances, you will need more than one license. For example, for a Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switch, it is mandatory to buy both Network Stack licenses and Cisco DNA licenses at the time of purchase. Both licenses are perpetual licenses. They come in two licensing tier options called Essentials (-E) and Advantages (-A). Network Stack Essentials or Advantage comes with the hardware, but you need to choose a Cisco DNA term license at the time of order.
Note: While making a selection, you will also need to select the preferred consumption model (Cisco DNA Premier, Advantage, or Essentials) and duration for the Cisco DNA term license (3, 5, or 7 years). And you can also add other components such as a secondary power supply, power cables, and more. So, it is better to get an idea of your needs before you place an order for Cisco switches or other hardware appliances.
How do I get support with Cisco Licensing?
With Cisco Licensing, there are usually two models and SKUs that you will see on your order and build of material sheets. These two models are Smartnet (SNT) and Software Support Services (SWSS). Though both these models look familiar, choosing the wrong one can leave a company vulnerable to security threats.
The Smartnet model applies to only hardware. Based on the level purchased, you will get anywhere from 8×5 next business days (NBD) to 24x7x2 hours replacement on that hardware. While your Smartnet is valid, it also grants you operating system updates that are similar to Windows updates.
However, SWSS is offered with one single purpose and that is to ensure that the software add-on features stay updated and eligible for support.
If you buy products with both SNT and SWSS SKU on them, it is preferred to choose both SKUs also at the renewal time. In case you choose SNT and leave SWSS, you will not get any Cisco support if you want help with the software module. On the other hand, if you choose SWSS and leave SNT, you will get software updates and support but will not get any support if your hardware fails. They won’t help you replace your hardware. So, in such a case, you will need to buy new hardware along with new licenses attached to it.
If you are buying Cisco hardware appliances such as switches and firewalls and need help with choosing the right Cisco licensing for your needs, please get in touch with us via WhatsApp at +971585811786.