Cisco Boasts New Wireless LAN Architecture Is Secure by Design

Networking vendor Cisco Systems is detailing a new integrated wireless network architecture this week the vendor says will remove the data insecurity typically associated with wireless LANs.

In this announcement Cisco has wrapped up their various security products into one tested and certified bundle, but doesn't offer anything specifically new. Cisco must be feeling the pressure, as the announcement heavily emphasizes their "Self-Defending Network" wireless IDS/IPS functionality, an integrated product feature. Their competitors, save Aruba, have all partnered with specialized WIDPS vendors such as AirDefense, AirMagnet, AirTight, and Network Chemistry, but Cisco clearly maintains that they can do it alone. Frank Bulk NWC Contributing Editor

Designed around the company's Self-Defending Network framework, Cisco says having security tightly coupled with the Cisco Secure Wireless Solution design gives organizations the level of protection they need to secure wireless data. Additionally, Cisco claims the solution's architecture delivers the elements businesses need to meet federal regulatory standards, including Sarbanes-Oxley and industry directives such as the Payment Card Industry (PCI) standard.

Cisco says the Cisco Secure Wireless Solution, which blends the vendor's WLAN hardware and software with Cisco security solutions--including a network access control appliance, a firewall, intrusion prevention software, an access control server, and secure client software--addresses a full range of security issues, running the gamut from blocking malicious applications and intruders to encrypting data, detecting rogue clients and eliminating rogue access points.

Cisco says the solution also provides the flexibility businesses need to add guest users such as contractors and partners without jeopardizing security.

Having security built-into a WLAN architecture will not only better protect the network but also help cut support costs, says Erik Parker, certified information systems security professional and senior wireless infrastructure analyst for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Cisco claims that the ultimate result is WLANS that are just as secure as their wireline counterparts.

Tweet

   

More Networking