Using Security Device Manager
SDM overview

The Cisco Security Device Manager (SDM) is an intuitive, Web-based device management tool for Cisco IOS Software-based routers. Cisco SDM simplifies router and security configuration through smart wizards, which help to quickly and easily deploy, configure, and monitor a router without requiring knowledge of the command-line interface. SDM is supported on Cisco 830 Series, 1700 Series, 1800 Series, 2600XM Series, 2800 Series, 3600 Series, 3700 Series, and 3800 Series routers, and select 7200 Series and 7301 routers.

SDM allows users to easily configure routing, switching, security, and quality-of-service (QoS) services on routers while helping enable proactive management through performance monitoring. Whether deploying a new router or installing SDM on an existing router, users can now remotely configure and monitor these routers without using the IOS CLI. The SDM GUI aids non-expert users of IOS Software in their day-to-day operations, provides easy-to-use smart wizards, automates router security management, and assists users through comprehensive online help and tutorials.

SDM smart wizards guide users step by step through router and security configuration workflow by systematically configuring LAN and WAN interfaces, firewall, intrusion prevention system (IPS), and IP Security (IPSec) VPNs. SDM smart wizards can intelligently detect incorrect configurations and propose fixes, such as allowing Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) traffic through a firewall if the WAN interface is DHCP-addressed. Online help embedded within SDM contains appropriate background information, in addition to step-by-step procedures to help users enter correct data in the SDM. Networking and security terms and definitions that users might encounter are included in an online glossary.

For network professionals familiar with Cisco IOS Software and its security features, the SDM offers advanced configuration tools to quickly configure and fine-tune router security features, allowing network professionals to review the commands generated by the SDM before delivering the configuration changes to the router.

SDM helps administrators configure and monitor routers from remote locations using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Secure Shell version 2 (SSHv2) Protocol connections. This technology helps enable a secure connection over the Internet between a web browser and the router. When deployed at a branch office, an SDM-enabled router can be configured and monitored from corporate headquarters, reducing the need for experienced network administrators at the branch office.


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