A cybersecurity system designed to regulate and manage access to computer networks.
NAC, which stands for Network Access Control, is a cybersecurity system designed to regulate and manage access to computer networks. It is an essential component of network security infrastructure, providing organizations with granular control over who can connect to their network resources and under what conditions.
NAC systems typically employ a combination of hardware and software technologies to enforce security policies, authenticate users and devices, and ensure compliance with network access rules. These systems work by monitoring and controlling the entry points to a network, such as wired or wireless connections, and applying predefined security policies to determine whether a user or device is granted access.
The primary objectives of an NAC system include:
· Authentication and Authorization : verifying user and device identities and grant access privileges accordingly.
· Endpoint Compliance : checking devices for security requirements and enforce compliance before allowing network access.
· Access Control and Segmentation : applying access controls based on factors like user roles, device types, and network location to limit unauthorized access and prevent lateral movement of threats.
· Threat Detection and Remediation : monitoring network activity, detect anomalies, and respond to security threats by isolating affected devices, alerting personnel, and initiating remediation actions.
By implementing a NAC system, organizations can strengthen their overall cyber security posture, reduce the risk of unauthorized access, enhance network visibility,and enforce compliance with security policies. These systems play a crucial role in safeguarding networks against external threats, insider attacks, and the unauthorized use of network resources.
