March 9th, 2010
Network security is usually in the forefront of every network administrator’s mind. Protecting critical and confidential data, resources, and multimedia traffic, as well as business continuity from the myriad of potential attackers in cyberspace is key in maintaining not only business functions, but also your customers’ confidence. What is the best way to secure your network?
Most routers and switches, and other network components have built in security protections like firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, encryption, etc. But as you expand your network to include laptops, smartphones, and other mobile devices, you broaden the attack surface, leaving your network– and therefore your data– open to hackers.
One way to add an additional level of security, and peace of mind, is through Cisco’s ASA 5500 Series Adaptive Security Appliances. These components, designed for all network sizes, provide intelligent threat defense and highly secure communications services. In short, they help organizations lower their deployment and operational costs while delivering comprehensive network security through a unified security platform. Members of the ASA 5500 Series Adaptive Security Appliances include the ASA5505-50-BUN-K9, the 8-port ASA5505-50-BUN-K8, and the ASA5500-HW .
Keep in mind that you can keep costs down by purchasing these components used for much less than the distribution chain through a reputable alternate distributor.
Tags: Cisco ASA 5500, cisco systems, computer hardware, Network Security, security
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March 3rd, 2010
Have you heard the buzz phrase ‘Secure Borderless Networks from Cisco‘ and wondered if your network would benefit? We’re here to explain what Cisco’s Secure Borderless Networks is and whether it’s right for you.
First, you need to understand how a network– specifically yours– becomes susceptible to intrusion and attacks. It’s obviously important to keep critical data, resources, and multimedia traffic safe and that protection is typically provided by a laundry list of separate security measures like firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, VPN technology, and the like. But the difficulty occurs with the addition of any-device connectivity to critical information and applications on the network. This can be in the form of laptops that employees take with them, mobile smartphone applications, etc. The more you expand your network’s borders, the higher the security risk you take on. But these expansion devices are necessary. They lower operational costs and increase efficiency. So how do you protect the network with a myriad of these devices out and about? With Cisco’s ASA 5500 Series Adaptive Security Appliances, Cisco Security Manager, and Cisco Security Monitoring, Analysis and Response System (Cisco Security MARS). These are all fundamental components of the Cisco Secure Borderless Network.
Cisco ASA 5500 Series Adaptive Security Appliances provide intelligent threat defense and highly secure communications services by creating a unified security platform. The unification allows cutting edge security measures to work together, simultaneously, and prevent security breaches before they affect business continuity.
Is it right for you? The ASA 5500 Series works on any sized network, so you shouldn’t feel your network is too big or too small. The essential factor is whether your network utilizes the devices that put the network at risk. Even a few mobile devices that are in constant use can make the network susceptible to hackers, viruses, and other attacks. Determine whether the safety it provides is worth the price. If it still seems expensive, consider not only what it would cost you to lose critical data during an attack, but also consider purchasing security appliances used which lower your initial cost but still give you that added measure of security.
Tags: ASA 5500, cisco, firewalls, hackers, Network Security, security solutions, security systems, viruses
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February 28th, 2010
There are six different options for Cisco IP phones, so how do you know which line best suits your company’s needs especially if you’re just starting out? First, anticipate how fast your company will grow. If you anticipate major growth in the next two years, it may be wise to purchase a phone system that will accommodate your future call volume rather than your current call volume. If your current system is expected to hold you over for at least two years, or expansion is not on the immediate horizon, stick to a system that handles your current volume well and worry about upgrading later. There are multiple capital reinvestment programs to help ease the financial burden of an upgrade later on.
The Cisco Unified SIP Phone 3911 is a cost-effective, entry-level phone that addresses the needs of a lobby, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or hallway. This single-line phone with speakerphone and internal microphone can also fill the communication needs of cubicle, retail, classroom, or manufacturing workers or anyone with low to moderate telephone needs.
The Cisco Unified SIP Phone 3911 is an entry-level, affordable phone. It offers fixed feature keys that provide one-touch access to redial, transfer, conference, hold, line select, mute, speakerphone, and voicemail access features; a display that supports additional capabilities such as caller ID, call history, and phone configuration; and choice of IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) or local power through an optional power adaptor.
The Cisco Unified IP Phone 6900 Series helps improve productivity and collaboration while reducing operating expenses. This series delivers simplified, fully-featured and cost-effective voice communications, in a clutter-free design, for a superior user experience. With considerably more features than the SIP Phone 3911, the 6900 Series phones reduce ownership costs by using less power and help the environment with a solution using recyclable and reground plastics and offers a choice of handset styles and colors. Functions and features of the 6900 Series include: full-duplex speakerphone and dedicated headset jack for convenient, hands-free communications; an anti-glare, backlit, pixel-based monochrome LCD’s make viewing easy under varied lighting conditions; a deep-sleep option for reduced power consumption; tricolor illuminated line/feature keys for quick call status indication; and support for right-to-left language presentation on the display in support of global deployments.
Tags: cisco equipment, Cisco IP phones, Cisco phones, IP Telephony
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February 24th, 2010
If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve outgrown your IP telephone system, you may be thinking of an upgrade. Depending on the features of your current telephony system, this may be the most cost-effective option. However, if you currently use the Cisco 7900 series (or if you don’t, you might consider choosing this model for your upgrade), you can simply add an expansion module. The Cisco Unified IP Phone Expansion Module 7914 extends the capabilities of the Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G, 7961G, 7970G and 7971G-GE by adding 14 buttons to the existing six buttons of the Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960 and 7961G and the existing eight buttons of the Cisco Unified IP Phones 7970G and 7971G-GE, increasing the total number of buttons when you add one or two Cisco Unified Expansion Modules 7914. You can use up to two Cisco Unified IP Phone Expansion Modules 7914 with a Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G, 7961G, 7970G or 7971G-GE.
The large LCD display of the Cisco Unified IP Phone Expansion Module allows for quick and easy identification of associated buttons. Using the Settings menu of the
Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G, 7961G, 7970G and 7971G-GE, you can adjust the contrast of the individual LCDs for the
Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G, 7961G, 7970G and 7971G-GE and Cisco Unified IP Phone Expansion Module 7914 according to your preference. The 14 buttons on each Cisco Unified IP Phone Expansion Module 7914 can be programmed as a directory number (DN), line key, or speed-dial key, much like the
Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G, 7961G, 7970G and 7971G-GE. When used as a DN key, buttons are illuminated, allowing easy identification of call state.
The expansion module adds functionality while allowing you to maintain your current phones and system. For some, this is a much more cost-efficient way to upgrade and satisfy a growing business’ needs.
Tags: Cisco IP phones, Cisco IP telephony, CP 7960G, expansion module
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February 21st, 2010
I was recently at a trade show when a woman asked my opinion on which Cisco IP phone system her company should invest in… the 7940G or the 7960G? Both are terrific phone systems and share most of the same features. But because she was unsure, I thought it might be a good topic to do a quick blog post on in case anyone else found themselves wondering the same thing.
Let’s start with the Cisco 7940G. The 7940 was designed for the communications needs of a transaction-type worker. It provides two programmable line and feature keys, plus a high-quality speakerphone. The Cisco Unified IP Phone 7940G also has four dynamic soft keys that guide users through call features and functions. A built-in headset port and an integrated Ethernet switch are standard with the Cisco Unified IP Phone 7940G. The phone also includes audio controls for the full-duplex speakerphone, handset, and headset. This phone also features a large, pixel-based LCD display that provides information such as date and time, calling party name, calling party number, and digits dialed. Figure 2 shows the icon buttons on the phone, with word overlay in English included in the documentation package with each phone.
The Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G, a key offering in the IP Phone portfolio, is a full-featured IP phone primarily for manager and executive needs. It provides six programmable line/feature buttons and four interactive soft keys that guide a user through call features and functions. Audio controls for duplex speakerphone, handset and headset. The Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G also features a large, pixel-based LCD display. The display provides features are the same as those on the 7940G. The graphic capability of the display allows for the inclusion of such features as XML (Extensible Markup Language) and future features.
So the answer? The phones in the 7600 Series are compatible. Those answering a high volume of calls for others would fare better with the 7940G, while executives and managers would most likely prefer the 7960G.
Tags: Cisco IP phones, Cisco telephony, CP 7940G
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February 17th, 2010
Industry directives, laws, and rising energy costs are causing companies that rely on IT networks to find ways to make their networks more green and sustainable. Small changes can make a significant difference but many business owners don’t know what to look for our how to begin. We’re here to help.
There are three key areas that can help you attain a more sustainable network.
1. Efficiency of Operation
A network’s ability to provide collaboration services not only minimizes the time multiple employees spend on efficient processes, but helps to reduce overall power use and increase effectiveness. Integrated services networks are the key as they tend to be the most productive, and cost less to upgrade incrementally, growing only as the business itself grows.
2. Efficiency of Power Use
The best way to control and limit energy cost and consumption is by purchasing an integrated services network like the Cisco Enhanced 2-port OC12/STM4 ATM OSM+switch. These centrally managed networking solutions require less power to do more work and keep consumption down. Power supplies which have been optimized also help considerably, as does intelligent power management.
3. Maximization of Equipment Life
Upgrading constantly creates hardware waste. A sustainability plan must include networking hardware that can evolve as the business evolves without being replaced by new physical components. An integrated system also helps on this front as the system itself can be retained when pieces of the system are upgraded. For example, you can keep the networking hardware and simply upgrade the software to a better security package if desired.
Tags: going green, Green, green networking practices, integrated networking systems, sustainablility
Posted in Cost Saving, Equipment Tips, Green | Comments Off
February 14th, 2010
There’s no getting around the fact that we have become a global society that relies on technology and the internet to conduct business, stay connected to friends and family, and keep up on what’s happening in the world. But the nature of the internet allows for certain dangers that everyone should not only be aware of, but know how to protect themselves, their children, and their data from being victimized.
Online Predators
The most common cyber-danger is online predators. Predators, like all criminals, come in various forms. Some are pedophiles seeking out children to exploit. Some are thieves looking for a way to hack into your credit cards and bank accounts so that they can buy whatever they want under the cloaked anonymity of internet commerce and stick you with the bill. Others are looking to turn your computer into a netbot so that they can send out spam or hide the source of the viruses they’re creating. It’s all criminal activity and it all puts you at risk.
So how can you protect yourself?
When it comes to children, the best thing you can do is know what sites your children are surfing and who they are connecting with online whether it be through email, chat rooms, or the many social networking sites. There are software programs that not only allow you to give permission to each family member, controlling which sites they can log onto, but there are also programs that track what sites have been visited. Limiting the time on the computer for children can also help.
When it comes to protecting your computer from virus attacks, consider a reliable anti-virus program. For networks at your business, it’s important to have some sort of security services module that keeps not only your confidential data safe by employing firewalls and encryption, but also protects the privacy of your customers.
Lastly, learn good habits of buying items online. Purchase products from reputable retailers and use PayPal or a credit card instead of a debit card for online purchases. Never send a credit card number in an email. Many credit card companies offer protection against online purchasing fraud so find out which of the cards you hold do and use those for online purchases. Always check your statements to be sure you spent what you thought you were spending.
Posted in Network Security | Comments Off
February 10th, 2010
Benefits of an integrated networking system come about by marrying core networking functions like switching, routing, Internet services, WAN optimization, and security. When all these features are brought together, the result is more secure communication through unconstrained connectivity; delivery of higher quality real time video, voice, and data; reduced overall operating expenses; and a more manageable, self-defending network.
These network solutions, like the Cisco 12816 Internet Router, are inherently intelligent, integrated networks that adapt to current and future business needs. Because they are highly scalable and managed centrally, these systems give businesses the opportunity to upgrade equipment incrementally, as the company’s needs change– however fast or slow that may be. This also makes these types of networking systems greener and more sustainable than non-centralized component networks.
Like a human body, the different functions work together in an integrated system the way the circulatory system is necessary for the muscular system to work properly. Without blood’s ability to deliver oxygen to the muscles, the muscles can’t properly function. To separate these systems would make the body less efficient, and so it goes with networking systems as well.
Tags: integrated networking systems, networking equipment, router, routers
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January 30th, 2010
As if it weren’t enough that Weight Watchers customized and expanded its security capabilities with a remotely managed, secure, single-box solution based on Cisco Application Extension Platform, mega-corporations around the globe are still looking to Cisco for ways to help them expand their networks and keep them safe for users. Texas Instruments relies on the ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Router. Wachovia uses the same ASR 1000 Series routers coupled with the QuantumFlow Processor. It seems like everyone who’s anyone is reaching out to Cisco for their networking needs.
So why shouldn’t you?
Okay, okay. If you’re first thought is an obvious “Because we don’t have the cash to buy these products the way huge companies do,” you might want to take a moment before you answer. Cisco offers terrific solutions for small businesses as well as Fortune 500 companies, and there are ways to make those solutions yours even if the components you’ve got your eye on from Cisco still seem expensive and out of reach.
Third party suppliers like MULTI-LINK Communications Products offer new and refurbished Cisco routers, Cisco switches, and Cisco security systems at a fraction of the cost than… you guessed it. Cisco. Not only does MLCP sell a wide range of Cisco products, they offer a standard one year warranty on all equipment (even pre-owned equipment), offer generous trade-in credit on surplus or old equipment you no longer need, and have staff on hand ready to help you decide which products best fit your budget and protect your investment. On top of that, they also offer leases on Cisco equipment, and because they work with companies all over the world, they can locate exactly what you need and have it shipped to you even if the item is not in stock.
If you want to be one of the big guys, it makes sense to follow their lead. But you don’t have to pay full price doing it.
Tags: Aggregation Services routers, cisco, cisco equipment, cisco products, routers, warranties
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January 27th, 2010
Last month’s rains caused a massive amount of problems for southern California residents and business owners but MULTI-LINK Communications Products (MLCP) was there to help. The highly respected alternative Cisco provider for businesses all over the world is headquartered in Torrance, California and wasn’t affected by the storms, but several small businesses in the La Crescenta/La Canada area were. MLCP was quick to rise to the occasion and help out local businesses that lost networking hardware equipment due to water leaks and minor flooding.
”We wanted to do everything we could to help these business owners,” explains MLCP President Eric Tanaka. “Those that had water damage have to spend a lot of money cleaning up and replacing furniture, equipment, computers… at a time like that, you really can’t afford to have your network down and be doing no business whatsoever until the insurance pays and you can replace what was lost.” MLCP assisted six small businesses in a few different ways. “For all of the businesses, we rushed new equipment to them the day they ordered. We put them on an extended financing plan so that they could get up and running again without spending any of the cash they’re going to desperately need to get them through this difficult period,” says Tanaka. MLCP also helped in other ways; offering trade-in credit on damaged equipment helped lower costs for affected business owners as well.
“Most of the equipment we accepted is damaged but not beyond repair. Because we sell networking equipment to companies all over the world, we maintain a huge surplus. Our technicians can use pieces of the damaged equipment to refurbish other components much like you would with a car,” says Kris Cox, a long-time employee at MLCP who handled the companies affected by the storms. “California has had such a hard time the past year or so. It’s important to us to do everything we can to keep small businesses afloat—no pun intended.”
Because the companies were all local, MULTI-LINK Communications Products also shipped the new hardware at no charge, and provided an installer for free. “Everyone we dealt with was grateful for any help we could give them,” explains Tanaka. “Most of our new customers come to us in a crisis situation hoping we can do something for them that the distribution chain won’t. It’s this type of personalized service that helps us grow our company to what it is today. These business owners will all be customers for life. If other companies would just realize that sometimes taking a short term loss will actually help you expand your customer base in the long term, I think more would step in and help when they can.”
And ‘long term’ is a word that MLCP takes seriously. The company is now going on its 15th year in business. Since 1995, MULTI-LINK Communications has been a reliable supplier of network hardware and equipment from Cisco and other companies like Juniper, Foundry, and many more. The company buys used equipment for generous trade-in credit or cash, and sells both new and refurbished equipment at discount prices. Whether you need to replace a simple network cable, or upgrade to an entirely new network with higher-performing Cisco routers, start and end your search with MLCP.
Tags: cisco, cisco products, crisis resolution, data networking equipment, networking equipment, used Cisco products, used network hardware
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