Basic difference - PIX and Concentrator.

[nikhil.malhothra]

Hi all,

One basic question. What is the main difference between Firewall and Concentrator.

I thought that only difference is that Concentrator is useful with VPN clients and PIX in the situations to handle site-to-site VPNs. But even PIX handles the VPN clients. Then what is the difference?

I will be greatful if you could ALSO point me to some links.

Thank you in advance,

Nikh.

[stomasko]

As far as VPNs go the main difference is the number of connections. PIX is a firewall device that offers VPN functionality. Max connections is around 2000. Concentrator is a VPN specific device with max connections around 10000. Of course this is also dependant on the specific model and type of VPN connection (LAN-LAN, client, etc). See these two sites for product specific VPN info.

PIX: http://www.cisco.com/application/pdf/en/us/guest/products/ps2030/c1031/ccmigration_09186a008007d065.pdf

Concentrator:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/vpndevc/ps2284/prod_models_comparison.html

Hope this helps,

Steve

[sachinraja]

Hello Nikh,

Apart from this, there are some features which differ between PIX and VPN concentrator. I have attached a sheet which clearly describes the difference.

hope this helps..all the best... rate replies if found useful..

Raj