Cisco is expanding its Borderless Networks portfolio--the architecture that incorporates routing, switching, mobility, security and wide-area network (WAN) optimization--with new security, management and video capabilities. Highlights include the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), the centralized policy engine for the Cisco TrustSec solution that enforces a context-aware access security policy, distinguishes between organization-owned and personal user devices, and automates security with network-enforced access policies and encryption.
ISE also simplifies IT operations by enabling policy definitions that mirror business rules based on user, device, application and location, as well as integrates with Cisco Prime solutions for endpoint connectivity management. The company is also supporting ISE in the TrustSec Planning and Design Service, which helps customers integrate TrustSec throughout their networks.
Cisco sees the centralized policy engine of its Borderless Networks offering as a game changer--the first initiative to deliver on the promise of policies. Controlling policies is a major CIO pain point, says the company, and an important objective is to simplify the process and give users the tools to define universal policies.
Built on a service-centric foundation and a set of common operational attributes, the new Cisco Prime for Enterprise will enable IT departments to more effectively manage their networks and network services. Key features include converged user and access management for wired and wireless networks; the ability to monitor, troubleshoot and report on Cisco TelePresence sessions and media paths via embedded network intelligence, analytics and optimization capabilities; and integrated workflows to manage from the application layer down to the infrastructure.
The company also announced Cisco Medianet and Video Conferencing, which optimizes video delivery by embedding media and network intelligence into endpoints and network elements. All of the products should be available within the next 30 to 60 days.
