Palo Alto Networks: User-ID Hub in Multi-VSYS Environment

Overview

In a multi-virtual systems (multi-vsys) environment, Palo Alto Networks' PAN-OS allows for the designation of a User-ID Hub. This hub centralizes the collection and distribution of user-to-IP and user-to-group mappings, ensuring consistent user identification across all virtual systems. By consolidating User-ID sources, the User-ID Hub simplifies configuration, reduces redundancy, and enhances policy enforcement accuracy.

Key Functions of the User-ID Hub

Centralized Mapping: Aggregates IP-to-username and group mappings from various sources such as Active Directory, GlobalProtect, and User-ID agents.
Mapping Distribution: Shares collected mappings with other virtual systems, allowing them to enforce user-based policies without maintaining separate User-ID configurations.
Conflict Resolution: If a local vsys has its own mapping for a user or group, it takes precedence over the hub's mapping, ensuring local policies remain effective.
Operational Efficiency: Reduces administrative overhead by eliminating the need to configure User-ID sources on each virtual system individually.

Mermaid Sequence Diagram: User-ID Hub Configuration Workflow

sequenceDiagram participant Admin participant Firewall participant Vsys1 participant Vsys2 Admin->>Firewall: Enable Multi-VSYS Capability Firewall->>Admin: Confirm Enablement Admin->>Vsys1: Configure User-ID Sources Admin->>Vsys1: Designate as User-ID Hub Vsys1->>Vsys2: Share User-ID Mappings Vsys2-->>Vsys1: Request Mapping Information

Mermaid Sequence Diagram: Traffic Flow Utilizing User-ID Hub

sequenceDiagram participant User participant Vsys2 participant Vsys1 (Hub) participant Resource User->>Vsys2: Initiate Traffic Vsys2->>Vsys2: Check Local User-ID Mapping alt Mapping Not Found Vsys2->>Vsys1 (Hub): Request User-ID Mapping Vsys1 (Hub)-->>Vsys2: Provide User-ID Mapping end Vsys2->>Vsys2: Apply Security Policies Vsys2->>Resource: Forward Traffic

Palo Alto Networks: User-ID Hub in Multi-VSYS Environment

Overview

Key Functions of the User-ID Hub

Mermaid Sequence Diagram: User-ID Hub Configuration Workflow

Mermaid Sequence Diagram: Traffic Flow Utilizing User-ID Hub

References