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Glossary · Security

NAC

Network Access Control

In plain language

A system that checks a device is approved and healthy before letting it join your network.

The metaphor

Like a front-desk visitor check: you sign in, show ID and get a badge, and no badge means the door stays shut.

Going deeper

How it works

  • The network asks each new device to prove who or what it is.
  • Devices that fail checks, such as being out of date, are blocked or placed on a limited network.
  • It is common in larger offices.
  • Small offices get a lighter version with separate guest and staff Wi-Fi.
In practice
  • A school lets only managed laptops onto the main network.
  • A clinic puts any unknown device on a quarantine network.
  • An office uses separate guest Wi-Fi to keep visitors away from staff systems.

A question owners ask

Is NAC overkill for a small office?

Usually. A separate guest network and a staff network with a strong password gets most of the benefit.

Related terms
AAAAuthentication, Authorization, and AccountingAccount takeoverACLAccess Control ListAdmin accountAESAdvanced Encryption StandardAES-256Advanced Encryption Standards 256-bitAISAutomated Indicator SharingAPTAdvanced Persistent Threat

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