Welcome to our deep dive into Cisco ISE, a pivotal tool for network security and administration. In this video, we'll explore the history, features, and deployment strategies of ISE, guiding you through its complexities with ease. Perfect for IT professionals and enthusiasts aiming to ace their CCIE Security exams or enhance their network management skills. Let's get started and unlock the full potential of Cisco ISE! 

• History of ISE:
  • Initially, Cisco used ACS (Access Control Server) for authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) functions using RADIUS and TACACS+ protocols.
  • ACS was phased out in favor of ISE, starting from version 1.0, which initially only supported RADIUS.
  • Over time, ISE incorporated both RADIUS and TACACS+ protocols, starting with version 2.0.

• Key Features of ISE:
  • ISE offers advanced features such as threat control, posture validation, guest management, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), and network segmentation.
  • The transition from ACS to ISE provided enhanced capabilities and simplified management by combining multiple features into a single platform.

• ISE Deployment and Administration:
  • ISE is used for both network administration (e.g., connecting devices to the network) and device administration (e.g., managing network devices).
  • The deployment modes include standalone and distributed setups, with ISE offering multiple services called personas: Policy Service Node, Policy Admin Node, Monitoring and Troubleshooting, and PX Grid.

• Importance in Certification Exams:
  • ISE is a significant component in Cisco's CCIE Security lab exams, making up a considerable portion of the lab tasks.
  • Understanding ISE's functionalities, configurations, and CLI commands is essential for success in these exams.

• Practical Advice:
  • Practice and familiarity with ISE's CLI and GUI are crucial.
  • Focus on learning the current versions relevant to certification exams, such as ISE version 2.4, while also being aware of newer versions like 3.x for real-world applications.

This video provides an in-depth overview of ISE, emphasizing its evolution, core functionalities, and relevance in both practical and certification contexts.