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Network Access Servers

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Network Access Servers (NAS) are devices that provide a centralized point for enforcing access control policies across a network. A NAS can control access to the network for users, devices, and other network components, based on the authentication and authorization information supplied by the network administrator. It facilitates the implementation of Network Access Control policies and maintains logs of access attempts, which can aid in security audits and investigations. NAS devices can work in conjunction with other network components, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, to control the flow of traffic and enforce restrictions based on user and device permissions.

Guide to Network Access Servers(NAS)

What is Network Access Server: A Network Access Server (NAS) is a single point of access to a remote resource. It serves as a gateway for users to connect to a network, serving as an access point to the internet or other networks. NAS systems are crucial components in network security, handling user authentication and authorization.

Why it is important: NAS is essential due to its role in controlling the access to networks. It ensures that only authenticated users gain access, thereby curbing unauthorized usage and potential threats. It also tracks user activities, which is crucial for monitoring network usage, detecting irregularities, and troubleshooting.

How it works: A NAS typically interacts with the user's device, commonly known as the client, and an authentication server. The client sends connection requests to the NAS, which then sends these to the authentication server. The authentication server verifies the credentials and informs the NAS whether to grant or deny access to the network based on the authentication result.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Network Access Servers:
1. Clearly understand the role of NAS in network security, including authentication and authorization processes.
2. Familiarize yourself with various types of NAS devices and their specific functions.
3. Be able to explain how a NAS interacts with client devices and authentication servers.
For instance, you might be asked to describe the process a NAS follows to authenticate a user's access request. In this scenario, you should explain how the NAS forwards the user's access request credentials to the authentication server which makes the access decision and relays it back to the NAS.

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CompTIA Network+ - Network Access Control Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3)

Question 1

You are troubleshooting a network access server that is not authenticating users properly. What should you verify first?

Correct Answer: Ensure RADIUS server is reachable

In the scenario of a network access server not authenticating users properly, it's crucial to first ensure the RADIUS server is reachable. This is because the RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) server is fundamentally involved in the network authentication process. If it's unreachable, the NAS (Network Access Server) won't be able to authenticate users. The other answers are not the best first actions to take in this scenario. Upgrading the firmware of all connected devices is a process that can be long and it's not guaranteed to solve the authentication issue. Swapping the NAS with a new one might be a premature decision if the issue lies with the RADIUS server or other network components. Changing the ISP might not be relevant if the issue is with internal network authentication.

Question 2

A user reports that they are unable to access content stored on a NAS. What should be checked first to resolve the issue?

Correct Answer: Verify user credentials and permissions

The best solution for this issue is to 'Verify user credentials and permissions'. It is possible that the user doesn't have the necessary permissions or has incorrect credentials which would prevent them from accessing the content on a Network Attached Storage (NAS). 'Upgrade user's device' does not necessarily resolve the issue of accessing content on the NAS as the issue may not reside on the user's device. 'Restart the NAS multiple times' could be an unnecessary measure if the issue is with user's credentials or permissions. Similarly, 'Move the NAS closer to the user' is not a practical solution, as NAS works over a network and the physical distance to the user doesn't impact the ability to access the content.

Question 3

A company has just implemented a new network access server that requires multi-factor authentication. A user reports they cannot log in. What should the network administrator check first?

Correct Answer: Confirm if the user's account is properly configured for multi-factor authentication

The best answer is to confirm if the user's account is properly configured for multi-factor authentication. This should be the first step because it directly relates to the issue reported - inability to login due to the new multi-factor authentication requirements. It's possible that the user's access issues are due to their account not being set up correctly. The other answer options are either too drastic or not immediately related to the user's issue. Switching off the firewall temporarily is a security risk and doesn't relate directly to a user's ability to authenticate. Rebooting the network access server immediately is drastic and should only be considered after other possibilities have been ruled out. And finally, disabling the multi-factor authentication feature would defeat the purpose of implementing it, so it's also not a suitable solution.

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