Q
What is the Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License?
A
The Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License is a subscription-based feature set that enhances ASA firewalls with content inspection, anti-malware, URL filtering, and email security.
Q
What features does the Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License include?
A
It includes reputation-based URL filtering, advanced malware protection, anti-spam, anti-phishing, file reputation analysis, and SSL decryption for comprehensive content security.
Q
Which ASA 5500 models support the Content Security License?
A
The Content Security License is supported on ASA 5500-X series models, including ASA5516-X, ASA5525-X, ASA5545-X, and ASA5555-X.
Q
How do I activate the Content Security License on a Cisco ASA 5500?
A
Register the license key on Cisco’s licensing portal, download the .lic file, and apply it via the ASA CLI or ASDM under Configuration > Device Management > Licensing.
Q
How can I verify that my Content Security License is active on ASA 5500?
A
Run the 'show version' or 'show license detail' command in the CLI or check Licensing under ASDM Device Management to confirm status and expiration.
Q
Can I upgrade my existing ASA license to include Content Security features?
A
Yes, purchase the Content Security License subscription, retrieve the new key from Cisco’s portal, and apply it through the ASA interface.
Q
What is the difference between Standard and Premium Content Security Licenses?
A
Standard offers URL filtering and basic malware defense; Premium adds advanced threat analytics, sandboxing, and enhanced email protection.
Q
What subscription term options are available for the Content Security License?
A
Subscription terms range from one to three years, with volume discounts and options for perpetual licensing under enterprise agreements.
Q
How much does the Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License cost?
A
Pricing varies by term length and support level; contact a Cisco authorized reseller for a customized quote and volume discounts.
Q
How do I renew my Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License?
A
Log in to the Cisco licensing portal, select your subscription, choose the renewal term, complete payment, and apply the renewed .lic file to your ASA.
Q
What performance impact can I expect after enabling Content Security on ASA 5500?
A
Enabling content inspection may reduce throughput by 10–20% depending on traffic volume and enabled features; real-time metrics are available in ASA monitoring.
Q
Does the Content Security License support SSL decryption and inspection?
A
Yes, it supports full SSL/TLS decryption and inspection, allowing malware and URL filtering on encrypted traffic.
Q
How many concurrent connections does the Content Security License support?
A
Connection limits align with your ASA hardware; refer to the Cisco ASA data sheet for exact figures per 5500-X model.
Q
Is the Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License compatible with high-availability deployments?
A
Yes, it supports both active/standby and active/active high-availability configurations to maintain consistent content security across failovers.
Q
What are common troubleshooting steps for Content Security License issues on ASA 5500?
A
Verify license status with 'show license', confirm the correct .lic file, check system time, ensure Smart Licensing connectivity, and review system logs for errors.
Q
Can I manage the Content Security License through Cisco Security Manager?
A
Yes, Cisco Security Manager provides centralized management of ASA content security policies, license status, and reporting for streamlined administration.
Q
Where can I find technical support for the Cisco ASA 5500 Content Security License?
A
Access technical support via Cisco TAC, consult the Cisco online documentation portal, or open a support case through the Cisco Service Request tool.