Overview

In this chapter, you will learn how to:

• Recognize firewall and firewall security systems

• Discuss the Cisco Secure PIX Firewall products and technology

• Use basic PIX Firewall configuration commands

In this chapter, you will explore the CiscoSecure Private Internet Exchange (PIX) Firewall device or appliance. In the preceding chapter, you learned about the CiscoSecure IOS Firewall feature set that runs on a router. While both perform similar functions in similar ways, they’re related in much the same way as a general practitioner and a heart surgeon. Both are doctors, but one has advanced skills developed in a specialty area, and that one works exclusively in that area of specialization.

The CiscoSecure IOS Firewall feature set could well meet the needs in many environments or situations; but when a full-time dedicated security barrier is required, the PIX Firewall device might be the answer.

This chapter looks at the key components of the PIX Firewall device features, and it compares the functionality and limitations to the IOS Firewall feature set.