Cisco SNS-3855 Network Security Appliance

Cisco® Identity Services Engine (ISE) plays a critical role in implementing Universal Zero Trust Network Access (UZTNA), providing a comprehensive framework for identity and access management. Within the UZTNA model, Cisco ISE enforces strict access controls and continuous monitoring based on user identity, device health, and other contextual data, such as device profile, location, group membership and more. It dynamically verifies and authenticates users and devices, embodying the zero-trust principle of "never trust, always verify." By seamlessly integrating with diverse network components, Cisco ISE helps organizations maintain a secure, adaptive environment, preventing unauthorized access and reinforcing security at every layer.

The Next Generation: Cisco Secure Network Server 3800 Series

The Cisco Secure Network Server (SNS) 3800 series, powered by the Cisco UCS® C225 M8 Rack Server, sets a new standard for performance and reliability in network access control. Designed specifically for Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), the SNS-3800 series redefines efficiency and speed through its modern architecture.

Performance Breakthroughs with NVMe and SSD

One of the most significant advancements in the SNS-3800 series is the complete transition from traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) to Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) and Solid-State Drive (SSD) (Self Encrypted Drives [SED] or SED-FIPS) storage. This shift delivers:

• Faster reboots: Reduced boot times that get ISE nodes up and running more quickly.
• Accelerated upgrades: Streamlined update processes that minimize downtime and improve efficiency.
• High-speed report generation: Enhanced disk I/O performance enables faster analytics, troubleshooting, and visibility into network activity.
• Improved resilience: With no moving parts, SSDs and NVMe drives are inherently more reliable and durable than mechanical HDDs.

The SNS-3800 series supports three models to align with varying deployment sizes:

• SNS-3815: Ideal for small deployments, optimized for performance and cost-efficiency.
• SNS-3855: Configured for medium to large environments with robust redundancy in power supplies and storage. The SNS-3855 can be order in two configurations: Policy Services Node (PSN) only, with a single disk - PAN and Monitoring and Troubleshooting Node (MnT), fully equip with four disks for medium deployments.
• SNS-3895: The flagship model, designed for the most demanding ISE roles such as dedicated PAN, dedicated MnT, or combined PAN/MnT personas. Equipped with enhanced memory, it handles high transaction volumes and complex data operations effortlessly.

The SNS-3800 series is fully supported by ISE 3.3 patch 7 or later, ISE 3.4 patch 4 or later, and ISE 3.5 or later, ensuring forward compatibility with the latest ISE capabilities.