At 07:43 PM 11/12/01 -0500, Larry Johnson wrote: >I have client that will not take no for answer. > >He feels that the using ConfigMaker from Cisco is an absolute must to >configure his routers and switches. > >I would appreciate your opinions about ConfigMaker and the Pix firewall >graphic configuration utility that Cisco has also. > >Thank you in advance for your thoughts. > >LJ I put these tools as "enabling" devices. Cisco wants to bridge the gap between "laymen" and "cisco qualified" individuals, ConfigMaker and the Pix configuration utility does this. While it does help a neophyte do a "similar amount of work" as a skilled worker to some degree, it quickly levels off.
Weird issues and bugs and more complicated configurations can always be done by a trained individual. I am sure many others on this list will attest, they have setup rock solid configurations without the need for these tools. Many of the professional cisco qualified individuals can work much faster than the ConfigMaker or Pix GUI. I am not going to say "these tools are the work of the Devil!" However, to add some negative points to them. The Cisco Pix GUI might be opening up a possible security hole despite the little ACLs it can have. Convenience at the price of security. ConfigMaker can work directly or indirectly so that is ok I suppose. Take a look at the list of HTTP configuration tools for the routers and switches. Easy to use. Also, they have a nasty history of security holes. Inside network only? Heh. Most hacks happen from the inside. So, while they the tools are ok. The only ones who say it is an absolute must tend to be inexperienced individuals in terms of Cisco hardware/software configuration. -Carroll Kong Message Posted at: http://www.groupstudy.com/form/read.php?f=7&i=26044&t=26022 -------------------------------------------------- FAQ, list archives, and subscription info: http://www.groupstudy.com/list/cisco.html Report misconduct and Nondisclosure violations to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
