BUSINESS USE
Why is NAC important for business?
Improved security
Network Access Control solutions authenticate users and devices across various platforms, from cloud tools to physical sites like IoT devices (e.g., printers, servers). By doing so, it not only provides a secure access point but also enables monitoring. If unauthorized access is attempted based on the predefined rules set by the admin, timely action can be taken to mitigate cyber threats.
Increased visibility
It's not just about users. NAC offers a comprehensive view of devices ranging from personal gadgets to specific business equipment. With this enhanced perspective, you can swiftly identify which devices are authorized, those with limited access, and even those nearing their end of the lifecycle. Through NAC, businesses gain an invaluable inventory of both users and their associated devices.
Regulatory compliance
As regulatory bodies place greater emphasis on the protection of client information, NAC emerges as a pivotal ally. It not only bolsters security but also aligns seamlessly with stringent regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS. This ensures businesses are both guarding sensitive data and showcasing compliance with essential external standards. Through NAC, companies can cultivate trust and considerably reduce the risks tied to potential data breaches.
USE CASES
Ensuring controlled access for a safer network
Control access for a hybrid workforce
Modern teams require seamless and secure access to critical work tools and information, whether at the company headquarters or working remotely from various parts of the world. NAC ensures that your team stays connected safely, allowing for flexible remote work without compromising security.
Regulate third-party access: partners, vendors & others
In today's interconnected business landscape, collaborating with external partners is unavoidable. Network Access Control solutions ensure that these partners access only the necessary tools and data, enabling efficient collaboration without posing unnecessary risks to your network.
Manage access for short-term contractors & freelancers
The growing trend of project-based hiring means more temporary team members. With NAC, you can guarantee that these professionals only access resources relevant to their tasks. This approach balances the flexibility of short-term collaboration with the imperative of network security.
HOW WE HELP
NordLayer's multi-layered NAC approach
With NordLayer, you're not just getting a singular solution. You're gaining a multifaceted toolkit, designed to layer upon each other for advanced Network Access Control. Embrace the strength of stacking multiple access control options for optimal network security.
NordLayer provides robust control based on user identity. Not only does it integrate seamlessly with major identity management platforms like Google Workspace, Azure AD, Okta, OneLogin, and JumpCloud for secure user management, but it also facilitates:
- Network Segmentation: Decide which members and teams can or cannot access the network.
- Authorized Access: With Single Sign-On (SSO), biometric authentification, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), ensure that only the right people are accessing the network.
A dedicated server with a fixed IP address, provided by Nordlayer, enables organizations to do IP allowlisting. That is needed to ensure that your work tools and sensitive resources are accessed only by those who connect through organizations' Virtual Private Gateways.
NordLayer assesses devices based on OS type, version, and even the presence of specific files. Device accounts that are jailbroken (or rooted) or don't align with security requirements are denied to access the network.
NordLayer also allows you to restrict access based on the app version. This ensures that only devices with the latest NordLayer app – equipped with the newest features and in line with all enforced security policies – can access the network.
Location-based access control is on the horizon. This feature assesses a user's IP address location before granting network access. If a device's location isn't on the approved list, its access will be restricted.
FEATURES
Build your own NAC solution with our features
Our NAC features can help your IT admins build comprehensive access policies ideally suited to your organization.
SSO
2FA
Biometric authentication
Dedicated IP
Network segmentation
Smart Remote Access
Jailbroken device detection
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Frequently asked questions
Businesses should adopt a NAC solution to safeguard their network security infrastructure against cyber attacks from malicious users and infiltration from rogue agents and malware. NAC solutions assist in flagging any unauthorized access attempts or perimeter breaches so admins can deal with them immediately.
Implementing a NAC system requires understanding several facets of Network Access Control that admins can put into place across the business infrastructure. In environments with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies, adopting NAC effectively involves using a comprehensive network security solution. This solution should encompass features that directly contribute to access control and enhanced oversight over the devices accessing the network.
NAC helps mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to the network, which could lead to data theft or leak, and provides greater visibility for admins to monitor activity, especially in a BYOD setup. Understanding who is accessing the corporate network is key to protecting vital assets, data, and resources from falling into the wrong hands.
There are generally two main strands of NAC, which are both key to fundamental network security:
Pre-admission: Upon receiving a request from a user or device to access the network, pre-admission NAC assesses the attempt and grants entry based on proof of compliance with the network’s security policies — usually through authentication methods like 2FA or biometrics.
Post-admission: If the user or device attempts to access another network area from within, post-admission NAC can restrict movement before further authentication to limit damage from a cyberattack.
NordLayer is an adaptive network security solution that comprises pre-admission and post-admission features, designed to ensure only authorized users and endpoints can access specific areas of the business network.