How to control access to a network based on defined policies
Network Access Control covers the implementation and management of access control policies to protect network resources and data.
5 minutes
5 Questions
Network Access Control (NAC) is a security approach that enforces policy compliance on devices before they're granted access to a network. It's designed to keep unauthorized and non-compliant devices from accessing network resources.
NAC solutions perform several key functions:
1. Authentication: Verifies the identity of users and devices attempting to connect to the network through credentials, certificates, or other authentication methods.
2. Assessment: Evaluates the security posture of connecting devices by checking for updated antivirus software, patch levels, firewall status, and other security requirements.
3. Authorization: Determines what network resources the device can access based on user identity and device security status.
4. Remediation: If a device fails to meet security requirements, NAC can automatically redirect it to a quarantine area where necessary updates can be applied.
NAC implementations typically fall into three categories:
- Pre-admission NAC: Checks devices before allowing network access
- Post-admission NAC: Continuously monitors devices after they've connected
- Agent vs. Agentless: Agent-based solutions install software on endpoints, while agentless solutions scan devices remotely
Common NAC protocols and standards include:
- 802.1X: An IEEE standard for port-based network access control
- RADIUS/TACACS+: Authentication protocols often used with NAC
- TNC (Trusted Network Connect): An open architecture for NAC
Benefits of implementing NAC include reduced risk of malware infections, prevention of unauthorized access, enforcement of security policies, and simplified regulatory compliance.
For the CompTIA Network+ exam, understanding NAC's role in overall network security architecture is essential, along with knowing how it integrates with other security controls like firewalls and IDS/IPS systems.Network Access Control (NAC) is a security approach that enforces policy compliance on devices before they're granted access to a network. It's designed to keep unauthorized and non-compliant devices from accessing network resources.
NAC solutions perform several key functions:
1. Authentication:β¦
CompTIA Network+ - Network Access Control Example Questions
Test your knowledge of Network Access Control
Question 1
What protocol can be used to dynamically assign IP addresses within a network?
Question 2
Users at a company report slow internet access when using a network access server. The issue is most noticeable during working hours. What is a likely cause and solution?
Question 3
What is the purpose of RADIUS in network access control?
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