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NAC allows organizations to protect against unauthorized access and protect against malware and viruses, protecting against unapproved access and virus intrusions.
In this blog, we explore what NAC is, how it works and its purpose. Furthermore, we explore why its implementation could benefit businesses of various kinds as a tool against modern cyber threats that pose such threats.
What Is Network Access Control?
NAC or Network Access Control is the name given to solutions which grant devices access to networks based on specific criteria, including authentication (only authorized users can gain entry), security postures (only up-to-date operating systems, antivirus software and devices meeting specific criteria are allowed access) as well as any number of others such as device maker/employee access levels etc.).
NAC can deliver both flexibility and power; its policy-based access control enables fine but still scaleable levels of access control; NAC applies equally well for wireless or wired networks alike and restricts unauthorized devices or users from entering corporate networks by controlling network admission control or network access control - it ensures only authenticated users, and authorized devices gain entry.
With endpoint proliferation across an organization driven by Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies and an explosion in Internet of Things devices (IoTs), more control is necessary.
IT departments don't have enough staff or resources to manually configure each device - automated key features found within NACs provide significant benefits by decreasing costs and time associated with authorizing devices and authenticating users.
Cybercriminals understand that corporate networks have become more sophisticated, so they continue to launch campaigns designed and launched by cybercriminals that exploit vulnerabilities in these networks.
With endpoints multiplying rapidly and giving fraudsters easier access, NAC monitoring systems should be in place to identify any suspicious network activity as soon as it arises and take immediate steps, such as isolating devices to block the further spread of an attack.
NAC remains an invaluable tool even as BYOD and IoT disrupt its effectiveness. It acts as an inventory for users, devices and access levels and is utilized as an uncover tool which detects previously unknown devices gaining entry to networks or certain parts thereof; IT administrators then need to update security policies accordingly.
NAC allows organizations to select an authentication method for users trying to gain entry to their network. IT administrators have multi-factor authentication available as an added layer of protection over usernames and passwords.
Cybercriminals typically target data and applications stored within networks for illegal gain. By restricting their access, you can gain control.
Establishing strong network control measures will make it more challenging for cybercriminals to access these networks and penetrate them.
Organizations employ Network Access Control (NAC) to safeguard their network infrastructure. NAC works by restricting network access only to devices authorized to connect under predefined rules - like guarding against an incursion - providing maximum protection.
NAC prevents unapproved network access, which could lead to security incidents, unplanned downtimes and other detrimental outcomes that are costly for organizations and consumers.
Why Should You Invest In A NAC Solution?
Modern network security often forgoes many core protocols and standards associated with computer networking. Ethernet was designed for connectivity only and lacks authentication or authorization mechanisms - hence our room's wired Ethernet network not requiring me to verify identity before access was granted to it.
NAC changes this dynamic by adding specific conditions before devices gain network access.
NAC has become an indispensable security measure. It addresses concerns such as Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), Internet of Things devices and advanced zero-day attacks while streamlining guest traffic management, segmentation of guests into groups for segmented visits as well as simplifying the provisioning of VoIP phones, among many other tasks.
Access control in corporate wifi networks can best be demonstrated through their use. Your family and friends might use one shared key at home to connect multiple devices to wifi; when applied to large enterprise entire networks, this model becomes even riskier as its password will likely become known to all.
Any breach would force all connected devices to change passwords immediately unless access control measures such as Network Access Control allow employees or devices to authenticate individually, allowing more robust tracking in case of a security breach.
What Are The Advantages Of Network Access Control?
Organizations can reap a wide variety of benefits from network access control:
- Users accessing corporate networks can be managed, applications and resources can be restricted as needed, and contractors and guests can be allowed in, but user access should be limited accordingly.
- Allowing guests such as contractors, guests or partners in when required but restricting their access based on your business needs
- Establish role-based policies and divide employees based on job functions, then implement controls and systems which detect suspicious or unusual activities to protect against cyber-attacks.
- Automating incident response reports across organizations and providing insight on any attempts to access systems across organizations.
How Does A NAC Solution Work?
NAC relies on policies established from within a centrally managed policy server and enforced through elements in the network infrastructure.
Separate servers may be employed for authentication, authorization and accounting tasks - with most commercial NAC products using IEEE 802.1x authentication protocol as their authentication layer and enforcers and proprietary software as their policy server or endpoint agent.
Early Network Access Control solutions were focused primarily on policy management and implementation; newer offerings expand this functionality with features like endpoint profiling and guest management, BYOD support, visibility analytics as well as visibility across environments.
Some products blur the distinctions between NAC products and larger security packages by being sold as bundles.
Network Access Control (NAC) is an advanced security solution which facilitates controlling network access by applying policies dictating who and at what levels may connect.
NAC may involve complex working models with many components.
Device Identification
To be precise, when devices try to access networks, they must first be identified using a wide range of means, such as their MAC address or IP address.
Authentication
NAC authenticates devices to verify they have permission to connect to networks. Authentication may be username/password authentication, digital certificate verification, biometric authentication or intelligent cards - among many others.
Endpoint Compliance
The NAC system will verify that devices comply with all security and compliance policies within an organization, such as being up-to-date with antivirus, firewall and operating system updates.
Access To The Network
Devices will only gain network access if they meet the security policies of an organization and comply with them.
In contrast, any which do not comply can either be barred access altogether or quarantined into an area for remediation purposes.
Continuous Monitoring
The network access control (NAC) system monitors devices to ensure compliance with security policies. If they violate them, actions such as revoking network access or quarantining them could be taken by NAC to address such violations.
What Does The NACL Stand For?
Network Access Control List (NACL) is used as a feature of routers and firewalls to control inbound and outbound network traffic efficiently.
NACL consists of rules which determine what types of traffic can enter or leave networks depending upon factors like source/destination addresses, port numbers and protocols used. You can filter certain types of malicious software or unauthorized access while still permitting legitimate traffic through; using it increases security across networks while increasing convenience for end-users.
Create An NACL By Following These Steps
Determining The Goal
Determine the objectives and requirements of an NACL, including which traffic types it will allow or prohibit, as well as any filtering criteria to meet them.
Recognize Network Resources
The NACL can assist in the identification and protection of network addresses and devices requiring protection.
Define Rules
Create rules that allow or block traffic based on criteria like IP addresses, protocols etc.
Rules To Implement
Use the NACL to apply rules across network devices relevant to you, such as routers and firewalls.
Test
Doing a test run against the NACL requires watching traffic closely and verifying all regulations are being strictly adhered to.
Maintain And Monitor
Maintain and update your NACL regularly to make sure it continues meeting the security needs of the organization.
Keep in mind that the steps for creating an NACL depend on your network and security policies - for optimal network protection, it may be worthwhile consulting network security specialists on optimal configuration options for an NACL.
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What Is An Access Control Policy For A Network?
Policies provide significant network access control advantages. Instead of manually authorizing/denying access for each device or user, an admin can set conditions that govern who can gain or lose access.
It doesn't need to be all or nothing; advanced policies could grant contractors or guests higher access levels; devices could even be "quarantined", giving just enough permission for software updates without interfering with internal networks or users.
Most network access control systems utilize a policy-based approach that offers excellent flexibility and scalability, giving administrators plenty of leeway when adapting access rules for thousands of devices instantaneously.
Administrators also benefit from the capability to respond swiftly when threats such as ransomware or worms emerge, isolating unpatched computers from the network to minimize risk significantly.
Why Is Network Access Control Important?
Improved Security
NAC strengthens security by monitoring and authenticating every device when they connect to a network. With real-time network traffic tracking capabilities that detect suspicious activities quickly and allow immediate action when inappropriate or illegal behavior is identified, malware attacks and cyberattacks are reduced significantly.
Savings On Costs
Automated tracking and device protection on a wide scale can result in cost savings for organizations as less IT staff is necessary to secure devices.
Furthermore, blocking unauthorized access and suspected malware attacks prevent companies from incurring financial losses should these activities continue unchecked.
Automatism
Organizations use more endpoints and devices than ever, leaving organizations struggling to check security policies when users access networks manually.
NAC makes authentication of users, devices and accesses simpler.
Enhance IT Experiences
Experience with seamless access is always effortless for users, giving them confidence that their IT experience will remain safe.
Thanks to background controls, users know their experience will always remain secure.
Ease Of Control
NAC's visibility functions provide a 24/7 inventory of authorized endpoints of a company. Not only is this useful in IT for identifying which users or devices have access to networks, but life cycle management becomes particularly useful when devices need replacing or discontinuation.
Network Access Control Types
NAC can take various forms, with two primary approaches used to enforce network control:
Control Of Pre-Admission
Pre-admission checks are used to apply NAC policies before authorizing device access. Any device not meeting policy requirements will be denied access - making these controls integral to most NAC implementations.
Pre-admission access control must take place before providing access to any network, as every individual who seeks entry must first request entry and meet specific criteria that enable pre-admission to validate whether their identity can be established through proof or the device being authenticated by them.
Pre-admission Network Access Control assesses whether devices adhere to an organization's security policies before connecting to its network.
Pre-admission NAC allows administrators to assess devices for compliance by checking that software and security updates have been applied correctly on them and checking to see that all software patches and updates have been applied correctly.
After-Admission Control
After-Admission Control allows network Access Control policies to be enforced against devices already with access to a network, such as devices sending suspicious data or connecting with something they weren't supposed to connect with; policies could change as new threats come into play or have simply changed as time progresses.
Post-admission access control allows an authenticated device or user who tries to enter areas or networks they do not belong in to be granted authorization by providing additional identity verification before receiving this privilege.
A person or device who enters unapproved areas will require another authentication verification to gain entry and receive this privilege.
This NAC differs from pre-admission by monitoring devices that have already connected to a Network to make sure they comply with the security policies of an organization and that its device security posture remains compliant.
Device compliance statuses are constantly assessed; should any non-compliant equipment be identified, remediation measures are promptly implemented.
In-Line
Hardware NAC solutions monitor network traffic in real-time. Such hardware solutions are ideal for monitoring access control to networks as well as detecting potential threats quickly and addressing them head-on.
Out-Of-Band
Software-based Network Access Controllers operate independently from networks. Their solutions monitor and control network access through various channels to allow devices to be authenticated and authorized before being granted entry to connect to it.
Out-of-Band solutions typically are implemented via a server which does not directly impact network traffic. Policy servers communicate with devices like wireless access points and switches. They then apply National Antivirus Center policies against traffic destined for their networks and either permit or block it accordingly.
What Are The Top Network Access Control Uses?
NAC can be applied in many situations; here are just some of its most prevalent uses:
Guest and Partner Access
Many companies require third parties, like partners, vendors, and guests, to access their network resources. NAC solutions allow this while still protecting network segmentation: non-employees may register via a captive portal or get limited Internet-only access; either way, they won't have access to internal resources that require authorization to reach.
NAC For BYOD
Most organizations must now accommodate managed and mobile devices in their infrastructure, making BYOD not equivalent to security sacrifices.
With an effective network access control plan in place, only patched, secured devices should be allowed; unmanaged ones could be limited in a guest virtual local network (VLAN), network segment or segmented in guest VLAN; or require personal devices be registered into mobile device management system (MDM).
NAC For IoT
NAC solutions can streamline tasks while strengthening security. Printers, VoIP phones and IoT-enabled devices often belong in their network slice (this is particularly relevant when considering IP phones as quality-of-service settings may help ensure quality calls).
NAC can automate the steering of IoT into VLANs that best suit it without manual provisioning devices - thanks to NAC's extensive profiling capability, further preventing shadow IT or unapproved access points from popping up within networks.
NAC For Incident Response
NAC can be an indispensable asset during all stages of incident response. By swiftly changing policy settings during an attack or data breach, policy changes from NAC can stop an ongoing ransomware campaign or data breach from progressing.
Furthermore, most implementations provide visibility of network traffic that would otherwise go unseen, providing crucial details when investigating an incident.
Many vendors provide solutions far beyond an essential network access control (NAC) solution. Today's most advanced NAC offerings can detect suspicious traffic faster and act on it more rapidly than analysts; they do this using artificial intelligence features and integrations.
How To Implement NAC Policy Solutions In Five Steps
Network access control should not be purchased hastily - its implementation and optimization require proper planning, preparation and tuning to be successful.
When considering network access control, implementation steps can be helpful.
Gathering Data
Before restricting network users' access, it's necessary to understand their usage. What devices are they connecting with, and does their level of access serve a business need? Don't overlook servers, IoT-connected devices, smartphones, printers or other networked devices, which should also be considered when setting these restrictions.
Identity Management: Catch Up With The Latest Updates
Identity management should always come first for any organization looking to add authentication into its NAC policies, as many organizations do.
Your shiny new system could cost more than it's worth if new employees cannot log into HR databases because active directory servers don't synchronize properly. At the same time, NAC would serve no proper function if an employee who left six months earlier hasn't been de-provisioned yet.
Access Levels And Permissions Can Be Determined
As with anything, NAC capabilities are entirely at your discretion. In an ideal world, the least privilege principle should be implemented strictly and limit users' access only to resources they require in their job role; unfortunately, large networks rarely adhere to such principles, so role-based access controls provide an acceptable compromise between security and convenience.
Test Your Set-Up
Most NACs allow their users to set them up in "monitor mode", which enables them to evaluate policies before their enforcement begins.
It is vitally important that this step is taken as this allows you to spot potential problems before they cause high volumes of support requests and enable you to identify solutions quickly. You should test all newly modified NAC policies thoroughly.
Listen And Tune
Security controls such as network access cannot simply be set and left. As your organization and threats evolve, so must its security controls.
Before embarking on any NAC journey, ensure it has enough resources available for ongoing evaluation and optimization of its solution.
How To Select A NAC Solution?
NAC solutions come in different variations that suit various use cases and deployment models, making no single one-size-fits-all answer available to companies.
When researching potential solutions, keep the following in mind when exploring your options:
Is It Compatible With The Existing Infrastructure We Have?
Before exploring new solutions in your company, inventory current solutions within it. In particular, pay particular attention to any vendor if you've invested in networking equipment from them as this will ensure all pieces work harmoniously despite being compatible with an open standard like 802.1x such as 802.1x (although many features touted are proprietary and unavailable to mixed environments).
Does It Fit Into Our Existing Network?
Early NAC systems were intended for large corporate networks; wireless and remote access are now common in today's complex networks; different solutions may work better depending on each unique network environment.
What Are The Use Cases That It Best Aligns With?
Network access control software aims to enable you to restrict which devices access your network. Yet, its support for different use cases varies considerably.
You will require solutions supporting captive portals, segmentation and self-registration. At the same time, for BYOD or IoT scenarios, one with solid device profiling and posture capabilities may also be essential.
Is It Scalable?
NAC products scale differently based on vendor and deployment models. When implemented in busy networks, for instance, inline access control does not scale as expected and should not be considered an isolated product; its implementation could place additional stress on older switches, routers and access points which might otherwise perform efficiently.
How Much Will This Cost Me?
Price and pricing models should also be carefully considered if your organization plans on supporting many BYOD devices.
NAC products can be priced per device or user while other solutions have fixed prices or perpetual licensing options; perpetual licensing options also offer perpetual licensing as a subscription model; additionally, scalability may require adding more policy servers to handle a given number of endpoints effectively.
NAC Capabilities
- Identification and profiling of devices.
- Enforcement of policy for network access.
- Segmentation by device identity or user identity
- Automatic remediation of non-compliant equipment.
- Integrate security technologies like firewalls and intrusion prevention systems.
- Monitor real-time network activity visibility for reporting; manage private network access centrally.
Limitations Of NAC
- Implementation can be both time-consuming and complex.
- Additional hardware or software investments might be required, which could become expensive when scaling to large organizations.
- Furthermore, improper network configuration could impede its performance significantly.
- Maintaining and updating an infrastructure might require maintenance and adjustments.
- Potentially making changes necessary in terms of network architecture design or configuration.
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Final Thoughts
Bear in mind that network access control only represents part of an effective security solution for any system, data protection being equally essential to its overall function.
Our Data Protection Platform is an invaluable asset for organizing, classifying and safeguarding essential files on our network.
