The Basics of the Cisco PIX Firewall

Article Description

Initially installing the Cisco PIX firewall is a fairly simple, straightforward process—one that usually can be completed in 60 seconds. However, you need to be familiar with the basic commands to configure and secure this firewall properly. In this article, Andy Fox covers the six commands you need and walks you through the process of creating a firewall that allows data to pass out but not in.

Conclusion

Initially configuring the PIX using these six commands is a simple, straightforward process. A firewall that will pass data has been created. No data will be permitted in; all data will be permitted out. In some internetworking circumstances, that is all that is required. The "appliance" is working. For many people, this can be accomplished in as little as 60 seconds.

In most circumstances, however, getting the "appliance" to work is just the beginning. To find out about the six basic commands (and more), see Chapter 4 of the book Cisco Secure PIX Firewalls.