Cisco Safe Routing

Cisco Safe

Dr. Edwin Otto

Network Architecture and Analysis

Johnny Jackson

5/23/13

As a network engineer/designer securing a large internetwork can be challenging if not implemented correctly. In order to overcome the many obstacles ahead, as the network engineer for a large internetwork project; I would incorporate the reference architecture guide provided by CISCO Secure Architecture for Enterprise called SAFE.

As a key enabler of the business activity, networks must be designed and implemented with security in mind to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and system resources supporting the key business functions. The Cisco SAFE provides the design and implementation guidelines for building secure and reliable network infrastructures that are resilient to both well-known and new forms of attacks.

Today, the complexity and sophistication of threats mandate system-wide intelligence and collaboration. To that end, the Cisco SAFE takes a defense-in-depth approach, where multiple layers of protection are strategically located throughout the network, but under a unified strategy (Cisco, 2010).

The Cisco SAFE uses modular designs that accelerate deployment and that facilitate the implementation of new solutions and technologies as business needs evolve. This modularity extends the useful life of existing equipment, protecting capital investments. At the same time, the designs incorporate a set of tools to facilitate day-to-day operations, reducing overall operational expenditures (Cisco, 2010).

The Cisco SAFE uses the Cisco Security Control Framework (SCF), a common framework that drives the selection of products and features that maximize visibility and control, the two most fundamental aspects driving security (Cisco, 2010).

The Cisco SCF is a security framework aimed at ensuring network and service availability and business continuity. Cisco SAFE uses SCF to create network designs that ensure network and...