Even not being an expert in IOS and router security, I can acknowledge
the usefulness of SANS "Securing Cisco Routers: Step by Step". While
my router skills do not go beyond basic configuration of Cisco 2500
series, I can appreciate the complete end-to-end guide to router
security. What is better, the book (a 85 page manual jam packed with
commands and practical suggestions) describes not just "how to secure
a router", but "how to configure a router while having security in

mind".

The book starts with a brief policy primer which emphasizes the need
for written security policy. The book then methodically delves into
selecting IOS image, initial setup, remote access configuration, user
administration, configuring services, logging and finally the routing
protocols. The manual covers Cisco routers running IOS 11 and
later. The applicability of commands for specific IOS versions is
clearly marked. Additionally, the tips are categorized into applicable
to internal, gateway and SOHO routers.

A part of the book is devoted to using RAT - Router Audit Tool. The
book also contains a large set of checklists for router security,
which will likely come handy while working on multiple routers. The
book appendices also contain the tips for mitigating denial-of-service
attack using routers and guidelines for using nmap for auditing the
devices.

Similar to other SANS guides, it would likely not win any literature
prizes, but can be indispensable if one is confronted with a need to
set up or secure a router.

Anton Chuvakin, Ph.D., GCIA, GCIH is a Senior Security Analyst with a
major information security company. His areas of infosec expertise
include intrusion detection, UNIX security, forensics, honeypots,
etc.

The university I teach for uses this book. It is an "easy to complex" book which is perfect for the classroom or for the manager who wants to improve his or her strategic management skills in the comfort of their reading room. The strategic management model developed by the authors is easy to follow--and remember--to include the many connections it makes with external and internal analysis. I am most impressed with the authors' coverage of leadership, organizational structure, and culture. Not only will you learn the basics of strategic management--but it is a quick read and includes some outstanding case study's to reenforce the learning. A great read.