Cisco ASA5585-NM-20-1GE: High-Density Gigabit Ethernet Security Module

Jun 20 , 2025 71

Cisco ASA5585-NM-20-1GE: High-Density Gigabit Ethernet Security Module

Product Overview

The Cisco ASA5585-NM-20-1GE is a high-port-density security module designed for the ASA 5585-X Series Next-Generation Firewalls. This 20-port Gigabit Ethernet module provides cost-effective, high-density connectivity while maintaining enterprise-grade security performance, making it ideal for large-scale deployments requiring numerous network segments. With its low-latency processing and flexible configuration options, it serves as a versatile security workhorse for complex network environments.

Key Specifications

✔ Port Configuration:

• 20x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 ports (copper)

• Auto-MDIX support on all ports
  ✔ Performance:

• Up to 10Gbps aggregate firewall throughput

• Line-rate switching for intra-module traffic
  ✔ Latency: <15 microseconds (cut-through mode)
  ✔ Compatibility: All ASA 5585-X models (SSP-10 through SSP-60)
  ✔ Power Consumption: 55W typical (full load)

Advanced Features

Granular Security Controls:

• Per-port security zones

• VLAN-aware interface grouping
  High Availability:

• Active/Standby failover support

• Interface monitoring and auto-failover
  Traffic Management:

• 8 priority queues per port

• Hierarchical QoS policies
  Operational Flexibility:

• Ports configurable as inside/outside/DMZ

• Individual port enable/disable control
  Visibility & Troubleshooting:

• Per-port traffic statistics

• Port mirroring (SPAN) capability

Deployment Use Cases

• Enterprise campus security segmentation

• Service provider multi-tenant environments

• Industrial control system (ICS) security

• Large-scale VPN termination

• Data center security micro-segmentation

Next-Generation Evolution: Cisco ASA5585-NM-24-2.5GE (Projected 2027)

Key Upgrades & Innovations

Enhanced Connectivity:

• 24x Multi-Gigabit ports (2.5GBase-T)

• 4x 10G SFP+ uplink ports (expansion slots)
  Performance Boost:

• 25Gbps aggregate throughput (2.5x improvement)

• AI-accelerated threat inspection
  Smart Operations:

• Automatic port classification (IoT/OT/IT)

• Predictive load balancing
  Security Advancements:

• Port-level encrypted traffic analysis

• Zero Trust network segmentation
  Sustainability:

• 40% improved power efficiency

• Dynamic power scaling per port

Why Upgrade to ASA5585-NM-24-2.5GE?

✔ Future-ready Multi-Gigabit connectivity
✔ 5x higher security processing capacity
✔ Automated network segmentation
✔ Enhanced visibility into encrypted traffic
✔ Reduced energy consumption

Conclusion

The ASA5585-NM-20-1GE delivers unmatched port density for complex security deployments, while the next-generation ASA5585-NM-24-2.5GE evolves the platform with Multi-Gigabit speeds, AI-driven security, and automated operations for modern network demands. This progression maintains Cisco's leadership in high-density security solutions while addressing emerging requirements for higher speeds, smarter operations, and greener infrastructure.