One problem with signature based solutions is the need to constantly update those signatures.

As you may be aware, device updates, software updates, bug fixes, and other items are rolled into each MARS software update available for download from Cisco.com. These updates are not released at the same rate as IPS signature updates and a lag occurs. The Cisco IPS signature updates have been broken out from this update cycle to allow for shortened update cycles.

The IPS Signature download feature gives MARS the capabilities to download Cisco IPS signature updates for itself automatically. This will free up your cycles in that you won't have to manually update these.

If you need to do automatic signature and software updates on your IPS Sensors take a look at the Cisco Security Manager software. You can download the software from Cisco.com and install it without a license to run it in a full featured, but time limited mode for testing.