Just found this useful abstract on the verification of the Cisco 6509 switch, 7606 and 7609 Routers with VPN Services module. It also describes security requirements of FIPS 140-2, and how to operate them in a secure FIPS 140-2 mode.
According to the Wikipedia, the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) Publication 140-2 is a U.S. government computer security standard used to accredit cryptographic modules. The FIPS 140-2 standard is an information technology security accreditation program for cryptographic modules produced by private sector vendors who seek to have their products certified for use in government departments and regulated industries. FIPS 140-2 defines four levels of security, simply named “Level 1″ to “Level 4″ (”1″ being the lowest levl, “4″ being the most stringent).
Just goes to show you, we talk a lot about this powerful piece of harware but justifiably so. This is one bad mama-jama. So yeah, if you’re using a 6500 series switch, your network is safe. We have a bunch more info on this blog as well as the main TAG site relating to the Cisco 6509. If you have one of these switches or a compatable module available for sale, we’d love to hear from you! We are always in hte market for this gear.