Streamlining Security: Configuring AnyConnect for Cisco ISE PostureUntitled document

As organizations continue to shift toward cloud-based and remote work environments, securing network infrastructure remains a complex challenge. With the increase in remote work and access to cloud applications, businesses must ensure that only compliant and secure devices can access sensitive internal resources. To address this challenge, Cisco’s Identity Services Engine (ISE) has introduced the Posture module, a powerful tool that verifies endpoint compliance before granting access. When integrated with the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client, ISE Posture becomes a comprehensive solution that ensures connected devices are secure and meet organizational security policies before they access the network.

This guide will take you through the steps to provision AnyConnect for ISE Posture integration. By following this series, you will gain a deep understanding of how to configure and troubleshoot the deployment of this solution in a Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) VPN head-end environment. Whether you are a network administrator or a security architect, this guide will empower you to enhance your network security posture through an efficient and robust endpoint compliance mechanism.

What is ISE Posture?

Cisco ISE Posture is a feature designed to assess the security compliance of endpoints attempting to access a network. The Posture module checks the health and security configuration of devices—such as antivirus software, patch levels, operating system versions, and firewall settings—before granting network access. It ensures that endpoints meet a set of predefined security policies to minimize the risk of unauthorized or vulnerable devices connecting to the network.

The ISE Posture module operates in conjunction with Cisco’s AnyConnect VPN client, providing a dynamic and real-time assessment of endpoint security. Once a device is authenticated, the Posture module assesses its compliance with security policies. If the device passes the compliance checks, it is granted access to the network. If the device fails, the ISE Posture module can enforce remediation actions, such as denying access or initiating automatic remediation measures, such as updating antivirus software or enabling a firewall.

The integration of ISE Posture with AnyConnect enhances security by ensuring that any device, whether corporate-managed or BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), meets organizational security standards before gaining access to critical network resources.

The Deployment Scenario

When provisioning AnyConnect for ISE Posture, several components work together to ensure proper functionality. The configuration involves collaboration between the AnyConnect VPN client, Cisco ISE, and the Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) firewall. Let’s break down the key components of this integration:

• AnyConnect VPN Client: This is the client software that users install on their devices to connect securely to the corporate network. The AnyConnect client supports a range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms. It establishes secure VPN tunnels for remote workers and ensures that traffic is encrypted during transmission.
  
  
• ISE Posture Module: The Posture module is responsible for assessing the compliance of devices trying to connect to the network. It checks for security elements such as updated antivirus software, patches, and configurations that are in line with organizational security policies. This module acts as the gatekeeper, ensuring that only compliant devices are granted access.
  
  
• Firepower Threat Defense (FTD): The FTD acts as the VPN head-end device, handling user authentication and authorization through RADIUS communication with Cisco ISE. It plays a critical role in enforcing security policies, particularly in remote access VPN scenarios. FTD integrates with Cisco ISE to facilitate endpoint posture checks and to manage the flow of users based on their security compliance.
  
  
• Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE): Cisco ISE is the central policy and identity management system that processes authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) requests. It integrates with the Posture module to perform real-time assessments and provide security posture enforcement for endpoints. ISE also manages the policies that dictate which users or devices can access specific network resources based on their compliance status.
  
  

Steps to Provision AnyConnect for ISE Posture

With the foundational knowledge in place, let’s walk through the high-level steps involved in provisioning AnyConnect for ISE Posture integration. These steps assume that your AnyConnect client is already deployed and working in your environment, and you’re using Cisco Firepower Threat Defense as the VPN head-end.

1. Configure Cisco ISE for Posture Integration

Before AnyConnect can start enforcing security posture policies, you need to configure Cisco ISE to work with the Posture module. Start by ensuring that Cisco ISE is properly configured to accept requests from AnyConnect clients.

• Access the ISE admin portal and navigate to the Policy section.
  
  
• Enable the Posture functionality in Cisco ISE by ensuring that the Posture Services are activated. This enables ISE to begin assessing endpoint compliance when users attempt to connect via AnyConnect.
  
  
• Define and configure your posture policies based on your organizational requirements. For example, you might set policies that require antivirus software to be running, that the operating system must be up to date, or that firewalls must be enabled.
  
  
• Ensure that any remediation actions—such as notifications or automatic fixes—are configured within ISE. Remediation actions can help fix non-compliant devices before they access the network.
  
  

2. Set Up the AnyConnect VPN Client

Next, configure the AnyConnect VPN client to work with Cisco ISE and enable posture assessments. This process includes ensuring that the correct posture policies are applied to devices once they connect to the VPN.

• Make sure the AnyConnect client is configured to communicate with the Cisco ISE server for posture assessment. This includes specifying the ISE server IP address, shared secret, and other authentication settings.
  
  
• Enable posture checking in the AnyConnect client profile. This ensures that the client checks for compliance when the VPN connection is initiated.
  
  
• Install the necessary posture modules on the client, which can be downloaded from the ISE server during the initial connection. These modules are required for AnyConnect to assess the device’s security posture.
  
  

3. Configure Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD)

The next step is to configure the Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) appliance, which acts as the VPN head-end. FTD will handle user authentication and communication with Cisco ISE to validate the security posture of connecting devices.

• Set up FTD to communicate with Cisco ISE using RADIUS. This allows FTD to send authentication and posture assessment requests to ISE.
  
  
• Enable Posture Validation within the FTD settings. This configuration ensures that FTD will query ISE to determine whether a device is compliant with your organization’s security policies.
  
  
• Define access policies on the FTD device to control the flow of users based on their compliance status. Non-compliant devices can be denied access, while compliant devices can be granted full network access.
  
  

4. Test and Troubleshoot the Configuration

Once the configuration is in place, it’s time to test the setup. Start by connecting an endpoint (e.g., a laptop or mobile device) to the VPN using the AnyConnect client. The device should be evaluated by the ISE Posture module before it is granted access to the network.

• Monitor the ISE logs for any errors or issues related to posture evaluation. This will help identify any misconfigurations or compliance failures.
  
  
• Test both compliant and non-compliant devices to ensure that the posture policies are being enforced correctly. For non-compliant devices, check if the appropriate remediation actions (such as alerts or automatic fixes) are being triggered.
  
  
• Verify that access control policies on FTD are working as expected, blocking or allowing traffic based on the device’s posture status.
  
  

5. Maintain and Update Your Configuration

As your network evolves, you may need to adjust your posture policies to reflect changes in security requirements. Regularly review your ISE Posture configuration to ensure that it stays aligned with your organization’s needs. Update the AnyConnect client and ISE Posture modules as needed to ensure compatibility with the latest software versions.

Provisioning AnyConnect for Cisco ISE Posture is a powerful way to secure endpoint access to your network. By leveraging the ISE Posture module in conjunction with AnyConnect, you can enforce robust security policies and ensure that only compliant devices are granted access to critical network resources. Whether you are dealing with remote workers, BYOD scenarios, or hybrid workforces, this integration provides an essential layer of protection for modern network environments.

Following this guide ensures that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to deploy and configure AnyConnect for ISE Posture, along with the troubleshooting tips to keep your security posture intact. With proper implementation, you can safeguard your organization’s infrastructure from security threats posed by non-compliant devices, while improving overall network efficiency and user experience.

Understanding Deployment and Provisioning Requirements in AnyConnect and ISE Integration

As organizations increasingly adopt remote access solutions, the importance of robust and seamless security systems cannot be overstated. Cisco’s AnyConnect VPN client,, coupled with ISE (Identity Services Engine) posture modules,, offers a highly effective solution for managing access and maintaining security posture across a distributed network. However, the deployment and provisioning of these components—whether for a new deployment or an upgrade—requires careful attention to detail, as any misconfiguration can leave endpoints exposed to potential threats. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the core questions surrounding the deployment and provisioning of AnyConnect and ISE, and explore the nuanced requirements to ensure smooth integration and operation.

Who Deploys and Upgrades the AnyConnect VPN Client and ISE Posture Module?

At the heart of the deployment process is the VPN head-end—this is where the magic begins. The ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance) or FTD (Firepower Threat Defense) are the devices responsible for managing AnyConnect VPN connections and enforcing security policies. These head-end appliances are the deployment hubs for both the AnyConnect VPN Client and the ISE Posture Module.

Why is this important? The VPN head-end acts as the primary controller, ensuring that the correct versions of software and modules are deployed to the endpoints. By controlling this deployment, the head-end guarantees that every endpoint connecting to the network is equipped with compatible software versions that align with the system’s overall security policies.

The process of deploying these components is not only about providing access; it’s about ensuring that the client-side software is properly synchronized with the security policies enforced at the head-end. Without this alignment, organizations risk the potential of allowing devices to connect with mismatched software versions, leading to vulnerabilities or, worse, breaches.

This means that the responsibility of deploying, managing, and upgrading both the VPN client and ISE Posture module rests firmly on the VPN head-end, ensuring both integrity and consistency across the network.

Do the Versions of AnyConnect Need to Match on ISE and the VPN Head-End?

This is a critical question. The short answer is a resounding yes—version alignment between the ISE Posture module and the AnyConnect client is essential for the system to function properly. The version of AnyConnect that is deployed on the VPN head-end must be fully compatible with the version running within the ISE Client Provisioning Policy.

When the AnyConnect client connects to the network, it must be able to communicate seamlessly with the ISE Posture module to ensure proper posture assessments and compliance checks. If there is a version mismatch between the VPN head-end and ISE, the connection might fail altogether, or the client might not properly assess the security posture of the endpoint. This can lead to a variety of problems—such as access being granted to an insecure device or, conversely, legitimate devices being denied access due to faulty posture assessments.

In more technical terms, the mismatch can disrupt the configuration alignment, leaving critical security modules like the ISE posture compliance module either partially or fully inoperative. This misalignment is not merely an inconvenience; it directly jeopardizes the security framework designed to protect the network from potential threats.

Do the AnyConnect Versions Stay in Sync Automatically?

In an ideal world, version synchronization between the ISE and VPN head-end would happen automatically, reducing the administrative burden on IT teams. Unfortunately, that is not the case with AnyConnect and ISE. AnyConnect versions do not automatically stay in sync between ISE and the ASA/FTD head-end.

This lack of automation means that network administrators must manually ensure that the versions of AnyConnect deployed on both ends are compatible and aligned. The ISE Client Provisioning Policy must be updated with the same version of the AnyConnect VPN client used on the VPN head-end. If a newer version is deployed on the head-end, administrators must make sure that the version is also updated on the ISE system.

It’s crucial to understand the potential complications caused by version desynchronization. Incompatibilities between AnyConnect client versions on the endpoints and the ISE system can lead to various issues, such as clients failing to pass posture assessments or losing access altogether due to discrepancies in how the posture modules interact. The same issues arise when the head-end doesn’t reflect the latest version of the ISE Posture module.

Cisco is aware of this synchronization gap, and there are hopes that future releases of AnyConnect or ISE may address this issue, potentially introducing automated synchronization between the two platforms. Until such features are introduced, however, the burden falls on the network administrators to ensure that versions are manually aligned.

What Does ISE Provision in the Posture Process?

The concept of provisioning is a key element in the ISE Posture framework. When we talk about provisioning in this context, we are not just referring to the deployment of the ISE Posture module, but rather the entire set of necessary configurations that ISE will need to assess the security posture of connecting endpoints.

The ISE provisioning process involves the configuration and deployment of the Posture profile as well as the ISE Posture compliance module. It’s important to note that these are distinct entities. The Posture profile is the baseline configuration that defines the desired security posture for devices seeking access to the network. This profile may include requirements such as operating system version, antivirus software status, or specific patches that must be applied before a device is allowed to connect.

On the other hand, the ISE Posture compliance module is the actual component responsible for performing the compliance check on each endpoint. It validates the configuration of the endpoint against the predefined Posture profile, ensuring that the device complies with the security requirements. This involves checking that all necessary software modules are installed and that the system is free of vulnerabilities that could compromise the network.

It’s essential to differentiate between provisioning the Posture profile and deploying the compliance check components. Provisioning the profile is about preparing ISE to define what constitutes compliance, while the deployment of the compliance module ensures that ISE can effectively enforce those requirements during the authentication process.

Posture Profile Deployment

The Posture profile defines the security parameters that must be met by devices wishing to access the network. These parameters are based on your organization’s security policy and may vary depending on the nature of the device—whether it is a personal laptop, a corporate workstation, or a mobile device. Once the profile is defined in ISE, it serves as the baseline that all devices must meet to connect.

Compliance Check Deployment

Once the Posture profile is set, the compliance check components of the ISE Posture module are deployed to devices. The compliance check will verify whether a device adheres to the security parameters specified in the Posture profile. If the device passes the check, it is granted access; if it fails, the device is either denied access or placed in a quarantine group until remediation steps are completed.

The Importance of Integration in Posture-Based Security

One of the most critical aspects of the AnyConnect VPN client and ISE Posture module integration is the ability to enforce dynamic security policies based on the health and security posture of the endpoint. The network can dynamically adjust its security stance depending on whether a device is compliant with the organization’s security requirements. For example, if a device’s antivirus software is out of date or its operating system is not patched, the ISE Posture module can automatically restrict access to sensitive areas of the network until the device is properly updated.

The relationship between ISE and AnyConnect also extends beyond just posture assessments. It plays a crucial role in shaping the network’s zero-trust security model. By continuously assessing devices in real time and enforcing policies based on their security posture, organizations can mitigate risks and respond more swiftly to potential vulnerabilities. This approach ensures that only devices that meet stringent security standards are allowed access to corporate resources, protecting against threats and unauthorized access.

A Vital Consideration for Network Security

The deployment and provisioning of the AnyConnect VPN client and ISE Posture module are not mere technical procedures—they represent the backbone of a secure and resilient network. Whether you’re upgrading software versions, syncing clients with posture modules, or ensuring that configurations are accurately applied, every step plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of your enterprise network. While synchronization issues and manual configuration may pose challenges, understanding the importance of matching versions, provisioning posture profiles, and deploying compliance checks will help create a more seamless, secure, and effective network access control system. By focusing on these crucial details, organizations can better protect themselves against emerging threats and unauthorized access, ensuring that the network remains a safe, trusted environment for all users.

Configuring Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) for Posture Module Deployment

Configuring Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) for the deployment of the ISE Posture module is a critical task that empowers administrators to enforce endpoint security policies on remote devices connecting to a network. By integrating the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) with Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) and utilizing AnyConnect, organizations can ensure that only devices meeting predefined security posture requirements are granted access to the corporate network.

Deploying the ISE Posture module through Firepower Management Center (FMC) involves a multi-step process that spans from initial configuration to fine-tuning security policies, ensuring that each aspect of the network remains secure and compliant. This guide explores the configuration process, providing a step-by-step breakdown of the necessary actions to achieve a successful deployment of the posture module.

Step 1: Logging into the Firepower Management Center and Accessing Remote Access Configuration

The first step in deploying the ISE Posture module is gaining access to the Firepower Management Center (FMC), the centralized management platform that provides complete control over Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) devices. Once you’ve logged into FMC, you are ready to start configuring the remote access settings for AnyConnect.

Navigate through the FMC dashboard to Devices > Remote Access. The Remote Access section is where all settings related to VPN configurations and policies reside, including the deployment of client modules such as the ISE Posture module. This is the core area where you will set up and manage remote access profiles, configure VPN settings, and enable module downloads.

Within this section, you will see a list of existing VPN head-end configurations. These configurations are crucial as they determine the network topology for any client that connects remotely. You must select the appropriate VPN head-end configuration that aligns with the remote access needs of your organization. This decision is fundamental, as it defines which users or groups will be impacted by the security posture checks once the configuration is complete.

Step 2: Editing the Group Policy for ISE Posture Integration

Once you’ve identified the correct VPN head-end configuration, the next step is to modify the Group Policy to integrate the ISE Posture module. Group policies in FMC are pivotal because they define which security settings and access controls apply to specific user groups or individual users. In the context of posture checks, the group policy dictates which devices are subject to the posture verification process.

To proceed, go to Advanced > Group Policies and select the relevant group policy that you want to update. It’s essential to work within the correct policy because each group policy corresponds to a set of user profiles, and applying the posture module to the wrong group can lead to unintended access restrictions.

Once you’ve selected the desired policy, open the policy settings and navigate to the section that allows you to configure AnyConnect client modules. This area is where you will integrate the ISE Posture module and set it up to function alongside other AnyConnect modules.

Step 3: Enabling the ISE Posture Client Module

Now, we reach the critical step of enabling and configuring the ISE Posture module. This module is the heart of the solution, as it enables Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) to evaluate the security posture of remote endpoints before they gain access to the corporate network.

Within the Group Policy settings, you’ll find a sub-section titled AnyConnect > Client Modules. This is the area where you manage the different modules available to AnyConnect clients. Click on the + icon to add a new client module to the configuration.

In the list of available modules, select ISE Posture Client Module. This module is specifically designed to communicate with Cisco ISE, allowing the network to assess the security posture of the devices attempting to connect to the VPN. Once selected, ensure that the Enable Module Download checkbox is checked. This setting ensures that the ISE Posture module will be automatically downloaded to the client device when it connects to the VPN for the first time.

The automatic download feature is crucial as it minimizes the administrative burden and ensures that users’ devices are always equipped with the necessary modules without manual intervention. When users connect to the VPN, the ISE Posture module will be downloaded in the background, allowing the device to undergo posture checks immediately.

Once you’ve enabled the module download, click Save to apply the changes. At this point, the configuration is ready to be deployed, and the ISE Posture module will be available for AnyConnect clients as they connect to the network.

Step 4: Deploying the Posture Module Configuration

After enabling the ISE Posture client module and ensuring the correct settings are configured, the next step is to deploy the changes to the Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) device. This deployment process ensures that the configuration is pushed to the devices and that the posture module is active and ready for enforcement.

To deploy the configuration, return to the main FMC dashboard and navigate to the Deploy section. From here, you can select the FTD device(s) to which the changes should be applied. Choose the appropriate devices and click Deploy to push the configuration to the selected FTD devices.

This deployment action will propagate the settings, including the AnyConnect configuration and the ISE Posture module, across all relevant devices. The deployment process is typically quick, but it’s important to verify that the devices have successfully received the updated configuration and that the posture module is functioning as expected.

Step 5: Verifying Posture Module Deployment and Functionality

Once the deployment is completed, it’s crucial to verify that the ISE Posture module is active and working as expected. Verification can be done through both FMC and Cisco ISE to ensure that the posture checks are being triggered correctly and that the AnyConnect client is appropriately reporting posture status.

To start, connect a test endpoint to the VPN using the AnyConnect client. As the client establishes a VPN connection, the ISE Posture module should automatically be triggered. Depending on the configured posture policies, the endpoint may be required to meet certain security requirements before gaining full access to the network.

On the ISE side, navigate to Monitoring > Posture > Posture Status to review the posture assessments. ISE will report the results of the posture check for each device that attempts to connect. If any issues arise, such as an endpoint failing to meet the required security posture (e.g., outdated antivirus software, missing patches, or incorrect configurations), these will be flagged.

In FMC, you can also monitor the status of the posture module by reviewing the Connection Status of any connected clients. This data provides insight into whether posture checks are successfully being performed and if any errors or issues were encountered during the validation process.

Step 6: Fine-Tuning and Troubleshooting

While the initial deployment may proceed smoothly, there could be cases where adjustments are necessary. Some common issues might include the failure of the ISE Posture module to download correctly or the posture assessment not reflecting the accurate state of the endpoint.

To troubleshoot, start by verifying the Group Policy settings in FMC to ensure that they align with the intended posture requirements. If the module isn’t downloading as expected, double-check the VPN head-end configuration and ensure that the Enable Module Download option is selected.

Additionally, review logs in both FMC and ISE to identify any inconsistencies in the deployment process. Detailed logs are often the key to pinpointing specific failures, whether they’re related to network connectivity, device configuration, or ISE policy enforcement.

Step 7: Continuous Monitoring and Updates

The final step in the process is ensuring that your posture module deployment remains effective and up-to-date. Posture requirements and security policies should be regularly reviewed and updated to keep pace with evolving threats and new organizational needs. Ensure that the posture policies in Cisco ISE reflect the latest security standards, and regularly update the ISE Posture client module to maintain compatibility with new AnyConnect and ISE versions.

Additionally, continuous monitoring of endpoint posture checks should be part of the ongoing security strategy. Regular audits can help ensure that only compliant devices are granted access to the network, minimizing the risk of data breaches or security incidents.

Deploying the ISE Posture module via Firepower Management Center is a critical step in securing remote access and maintaining a compliant network environment. By following these detailed steps, network administrators can ensure that endpoints are thoroughly evaluated for security posture before being allowed access to the organization’s resources. With proper configuration, verification, and ongoing monitoring, the integration of Cisco ISE Posture into the Firepower system strengthens network security and enforces compliance, mitigating the risk posed by potentially compromised devices.

Verifying Module Deployment: A Step Towards Complete Integration

In modern network security, the need for robust endpoint posture checks has never been more critical. Cisco’s AnyConnect client and its integration with the Identity Services Engine (ISE) Posture module represent an advanced solution to ensure that only compliant devices can access the network. Following the deployment of the ISE Posture module, it is essential to verify its successful integration to guarantee that the system is functioning correctly. Once the client establishes a connection, the AnyConnect software will automatically download the ISE Posture module as part of the connection initiation. Monitoring the System Scan tile on the AnyConnect client provides an intuitive way to confirm that the module is operational. When deployed successfully, this module will actively assess the compliance status of connected endpoints.

The task of validating module deployment is far from simplistic. It requires attention to detail, strategic troubleshooting, and a deep understanding of the underlying technology. As the client connects and retrieves the necessary modules, users can also verify through detailed system feedback, ensuring that there are no issues with the configuration or communication between the AnyConnect client and the ISE server. This initial check provides the foundation for further steps in configuring ISE, ensuring seamless communication and effective compliance checks.

Configuring ISE for Posture Module and Ensuring Seamless Discovery

The ISE Posture module offers real-time security posture assessment for devices trying to access a network. However, for this feature to work effectively, a thorough configuration within Cisco ISE is necessary. ISE must be meticulously prepared to detect endpoints and facilitate compliance checks via the Posture module. The most critical part of the configuration process lies in ensuring that ISE can discover the connected device and execute compliance checks effectively.

Step 1: Configuring Discovery Hosts

Discovery hosts serve as the fundamental component for ISE Posture module communication. Their role is to identify the ISE Client Provisioning Portal and direct the client to the correct destination for provisioning. A discovery host responds to HTTP GET requests from the Posture module, allowing the endpoint to receive necessary compliance information.

Cisco provides a default discovery host address, enroll.cisco.com, which resolves to a static IP address (72.163.1.80). This serves as the standard location for the Posture module to query for configuration data. However, while Cisco provides this default, environments with specific needs or custom setups may configure alternative discovery hosts to support particular network requirements.

To begin the process, ensure that the discovery hosts are correctly configured to handle incoming requests from the Posture module. These hosts will direct clients to the ISE provisioning portal, which serves as a crucial intermediary for establishing compliance checks. For most organizations, the default enroll.cisco.com address will suffice, but it is always wise to validate and ensure proper DNS resolution and network reachability to this host before proceeding.

Step 2: Creating the Redirect ACL on the FTD

The next step in ensuring seamless connectivity between the ISE Posture module and Cisco ISE is configuring the correct access controls. By creating a Redirect Access Control List (ACL) on the Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) device, administrators can ensure that traffic from the Posture module can access the necessary services for successful communication.

The main purpose of this Redirect ACL is to permit HTTP traffic directed at the ISE Posture provisioning server (the enroll.cisco.com IP address: 72.163.1.80). When configured, this ACL ensures that traffic from the Posture module is routed through the firewall to the proper IP address. Moreover, if split tunneling is used in the network environment, ensure that the enroll.cisco.com address is correctly included in the split-tunneling configuration to avoid blocking critical traffic.

The creation of this ACL not only allows seamless communication with Cisco ISE, but it also forms the first line of defense in ensuring that the Posture module can properly reach its designated provisioning endpoint. Ensuring that DNS resolution is accurate and that there are no routing issues on the firewall can save hours of troubleshooting when the process is underway.

Step 3: Configuring Cisco ISE for Posture Provisioning

Once the discovery hosts and ACLs are correctly configured, the next step is ensuring that Cisco ISE itself is properly set up to support posture provisioning. Begin by navigating to Work Centers > Posture > Client Provisioning within the ISE administration interface. This section allows administrators to configure posture policies, compliance requirements, and deploy the relevant AnyConnect packages.

The web deploy package is a vital component in this step. This package, which should match the version of the AnyConnect client and the Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) device deployment, contains the necessary components that will be downloaded by the client during the connection process. By uploading the web deploy package, administrators synchronize both the AnyConnect client and ISE’s posture assessment mechanisms, ensuring they function cohesively.

Once the package is uploaded, it is imperative to submit the changes and verify that the hashes of the files match the expected values. File integrity verification ensures that the package was not tampered with during the upload process, helping to maintain system security.

Step 4: Adding the Compliance Module

In addition to the deployment package, Cisco ISE also requires the latest compliance module to ensure that compliance checks run smoothly for all connecting devices. This module, which can be downloaded from Cisco’s repository, must match the operating system version of the AnyConnect client. By selecting and installing the appropriate compliance module, administrators enable ISE to assess the health, configuration, and security posture of endpoints effectively.

Adding the compliance module ensures that the ISE Posture module can assess whether endpoints comply with predefined policies. These policies might include checks for antivirus software, operating system updates, firewall configurations, or other security features that ensure the endpoint is safe to connect to the network. Once the compliance module is added, click Save to store the configuration.

Step 5: Creating the Posture Profile

The final configuration step within Cisco ISE involves creating the Posture Profile. This profile essentially defines the rules and conditions that must be met for a device to gain access to the network. It plays a critical role in establishing the communication between ISE and the Posture module. Under Server Name Rules, the administrator must specify which ISE servers are authorized to communicate with the Posture module.

For internal environments, specifying the exact names of the ISE servers is the most secure approach. However, for environments that require flexibility, such as those managing external contractors, a wildcard (*) can be used to allow any ISE server to handle the communication. This option offers a balance between flexibility and security, ensuring that external users can still access the network while adhering to corporate security standards.

Once the Posture Profile is configured and saved, it can be linked to the AnyConnect configuration. This step ties together the ISE Posture module and the AnyConnect client, ensuring that posture assessments are executed each time a client attempts to connect to the network.

Conclusion

The successful deployment and configuration of the ISE Posture module with Cisco AnyConnect provides a powerful security measure, offering real-time posture assessments to verify the compliance of endpoints before they access the network. By following the steps outlined—from configuring discovery hosts and ACLs to creating the necessary profiles in Cisco ISE—administrators can ensure that their network is protected by a robust system that only allows compliant devices to connect.

The integration of Cisco ISE and AnyConnect’s Posture module is not just a one-time setup but an ongoing process of monitoring, adjusting, and optimizing. Through diligent configuration and attention to detail, network administrators can create a secure, compliant environment that adapts to evolving security threats and ensures that the network remains protected from potential risks.

By leveraging these advanced technologies, organizations not only strengthen their security posture but also create a more streamlined and efficient process for managing endpoint compliance—setting the stage for a more secure and resilient network infrastructure.