Which measure can a security analyst take to perform effective security monitoring against network traffic encrypted by SSL technology?

To effectively monitor network traffic that is encrypted by SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security), a security analyst would need to be able to decrypt the traffic for inspection before it is re-encrypted and sent to its destination. This is typically achieved using an SSL decryption appliance or service, which acts as an intermediary for SSL/TLS communications. Here’s how the measure aligns with the options provided:

Deploy a Cisco SSL Appliance: This would be the correct approach. A Cisco SSL appliance, often referred to as a decryption appliance, can be used to intercept, decrypt, and inspect encrypted SSL/TLS network traffic. After inspection, the traffic is re-encrypted and sent to its final destination. This allows a security analyst to monitor for potential threats and data leakage within encrypted traffic.

The other options have different primary security functions that do not directly address the monitoring of SSL/TLS encrypted traffic:

• Require remote access connections through IPsec VPN: While this would secure remote connections, it does not facilitate the monitoring of SSL/TLS encrypted traffic within the network itself.
• Deploy a Cisco ASA: Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) is a security device that combines firewall, antivirus, intrusion prevention, and virtual private network (VPN) capabilities. While it can inspect some encrypted traffic with the proper configuration, its main function is not SSL/TLS decryption.
• Use a Syslog server to capture network traffic: Syslog servers are used to collect logs from various network devices for monitoring and analysis. However, they do not decrypt SSL/TLS traffic; they are used for logging and do not handle the actual network traffic itself.

Therefore, deploying an SSL decryption appliance is the best option among those listed for monitoring encrypted network traffic.