What is sxp cisco ise?

The SXP (Security Group Tag Exchange Protocol) serves a crucial function in the realm of network security, specifically in transmitting vital information about authenticated devices. When a wireless client successfully authenticates, its IP address and corresponding SGT (Security Group Tag) are transmitted upwards towards the distribution switch.

The distribution switch, a pivotal component in network architecture, is equipped to handle various tasks related to data flow and security enforcement. If this switch is configured with Cisco TrustSec, it is capable of performing an additional layer of security validation.

In the context of Cisco TrustSec, the distribution switch plays a vital role in integrating security policies across the network. When it receives the SGT associated with an authenticated device, it recognizes the device's security attributes and group memberships.

Upon receiving the SGT, the distribution switch proceeds to insert this tag into the packet that is being forwarded. This action is carried out on behalf of the access layer switch, which initially authenticated the device but may not have the capability to directly modify packets at the network layer.

By embedding the SGT within the packet, the distribution switch ensures that the device's security context is preserved as it traverses the network. This allows security policies and access control lists (ACLs) to be enforced consistently, regardless of the device's location within the network infrastructure.