When a Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) runs Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD), it does not convert the software to Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) code automatically. Instead, FTD is a distinct software image that runs on various Cisco security appliances, including Firepower hardware platforms and some ASA models. When an NGFW platform runs FTD, it means the device is operating the FTD software, which combines next-generation firewall features with advanced threat detection and remediation capabilities.
What is Cisco NGFW?
NGFW (Next-Generation Firewall) refers to a firewall solution that goes beyond traditional firewall functionality by including additional security features such as Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), Application Visibility and Control (AVC), and URL Filtering. NGFWs are typically deployed at the network perimeter to protect against external threats.
What is Cisco FTD?
Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) is a next-generation threat defense platform that provides a unified security approach across the attack lifecycle, from prevention to detection to response. It integrates a firewall, Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), and advanced malware protection into one platform. Key features of FTD include:
- Continuous visibility across the attack continuum from a single pane of glass.
- Protection of data integrity and confidentiality through out-of-band network segmentation.
- Intended for use in multi-zone and multi-tenant architectures.
- Includes advanced malware protection, application control, and URL filtering.
- Utilizes advanced intelligence to detect and prevent known and unknown threats in real-time.
- Highly scalable and can be deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or as a virtual appliance.
- Provides high-performance security with low latency.
What is Cisco ASA?
Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) is a security platform that integrates firewall, VPN, and Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) functionality. It offers a comprehensive approach to network security, designed to protect networks and applications from unauthorized access, malware, and other cyber threats. The ASA 5500-X and ASA 5585-X series are conventional firewall appliances that enable stateful firewall inspection functions at Layers 3 to 4. ASA provides robust VPN capabilities, including site-to-site and remote access VPN. It is generally considered a traditional firewall.
Can an ASA Device Run FTD Features?
Yes, some Cisco ASA models can be upgraded to run FTD software. Additionally, ASA devices can install "FirePOWER services," which add some next-generation firewall features, though performance might be affected.
Can a Device Running FTD be Converted to ASA Code?
Yes, a device running FTD can be converted back to ASA code. For example, a Cisco ASA Firepower Threat Defense appliance can be converted to ASA code through a manual re-imaging process. This process typically involves booting into a special mode (such as ROMMON), erasing the device's disk, formatting it, and then downloading and copying the ASA image to the device's flash memory over the network using TFTP. It is crucial to ensure you have the correct ASA license before performing this conversion, as FTD licenses are not compatible with ASA software, and essential features such as VPN and encryption will not work without proper ASA licensing.
For detailed, official guidelines on how to perform interconversion between ASA and FTD software images, refer to Cisco's documentation: Cisco ASA and FTD Software Interconversion Guide.
Key Differences Between Cisco FTD and Cisco ASA
| Feature | Cisco FTD (Firepower Threat Defense) | Cisco ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance) | Source |
| Architecture | Next-generation firewall running on Cisco Firepower platform | Traditional firewall running on Cisco ASA platform | Cisco Firepower Docs |
| Functionality | Broader range: IPS, advanced malware protection, URL filtering, application control | Primarily firewall and VPN functionalities, also IPS | Cisco official datasheets |
| Management | Centralized with Firepower Management Center (FMC) or Firepower Device Manager (FDM) | Managed via Adaptive Security Device Manager (ASDM) or Command-Line Interface (CLI) | |
| Deployment | On-premises, cloud, or virtual appliance | Typically on-premises | |
| Scalability | Highly scalable for small, medium, and large enterprises | Limitations, especially for large deployments | |
| OS Base | Complete new OS, though runs LINA code as a base underneath | Classic ASA software |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Cisco FTD a replacement for ASA?
Cisco FTD is generally considered a more advanced security solution and has largely replaced ASA as the recommended security solution for most new deployment scenarios, although ASA devices remain available and supported.
Q2: How is Cisco FTD managed?
Cisco FTD uses a centralized management system called Firepower Management Center (FMC), which provides a unified view of security policies across devices. Firepower Device Manager (FDM), a web GUI, can be used for direct device management without additional software.
Q3: Can Cisco Firepower hardware appliances run ASA software?
Yes, newer Cisco Firepower (FPR) hardware appliances are flexible and can run either ASA or FTD software. Some larger appliances support "Multi-Instance," allowing multiple firewall instances (including mixes of ASA and FTD) on the same hardware.
Q4: What are the primary benefits of FTD over ASA?
FTD offers comprehensive security features like advanced malware protection, URL filtering, and application control, beyond traditional ASA capabilities. It also provides simplified, centralized management via FMC and greater scalability, suitable for diverse enterprise needs.
Q5: What is the Secure Firewall Migration Tool used for?
The Secure Firewall migration tool is a free application that helps convert supported Cisco Secure Firewall ASA configurations to Secure Firewall Threat Defense platforms by automating feature and policy migration.
For professional assistance with Cisco NGFW, FTD, and ASA deployments, or to explore compatible hardware, visit router-switch.com for detailed guides and product offerings.