Understanding Network Access Control
Network Access Control, also known as network intrusion protection is a method of computer security which aims to integrate endpoint security with network authentication or user or software access control. As a security tool it is designed to prevent unauthorised access to a system by providing security from unauthorised or unwanted access via internet, through the firewall and by providing control on user and/or network access via firewall controls. Network Access Control has been used in some organisations for decades but has only recently started to be extensively used as a solution to security issues.
The purpose of network access control is to provide users with access to a computer system without compromising its integrity. This security technique works by defining user boundaries in network access, preventing unauthorised access to a computer system and allowing users to gain access only to specific resources or applications that they are permitted to access. In order for network access control to work, network security must first be implemented so that computers are protected against hackers and other malicious threats, then networks are mapped and the appropriate systems configured. Next, security is enforced through rules and policy.
It is very important to understand that network access control is not an automated protection tool but rather a complex set of rules and policies to enforce computer security. While networks may be protected using network security appliances like firewalls and software firewall, network security still relies on the users to apply the appropriate controls. This involves installing, configuring and maintaining software-based policies, and enforcing the appropriate access levels by using manual means. When applying network security policies, there are certain considerations that must be made before deciding on a particular policy or rules.
Network access control is divided into three basic types: private and public networks, and virtual private networks (VPN). Each type has its own set of characteristics, features and restrictions. Private and Public Networks are the most popular type of network access control because they are easier to configure and maintain, especially in corporate environments.
Private networks are the most common type of network access control in businesses. This type of network access control provides users access to restricted resources through a private IP address and firewall. Private networks are commonly used in combination with public networks in order to protect multiple systems that may be in different sites. Public networks, on the other hand, are used for protecting individual web servers, application servers and networks.
On the other hand, virtual private networks or VPNs are networks that connect to a larger private or public network using the Internet instead of dedicated networks. Virtual private networks can be connected to each other using secure VPN tunnels, while the public networks are connected through a private LAN. {the Internet. The virtual private networks are often attached to large networks using firewalls to provide security to them. Virtual private networks have different capabilities compared to public networks, such as dedicated servers, access to private IP addresses, and higher-level security, and they are usually used to protect networks or single machines.
Sigma Cyber Security provide a full range of network security solutions including Network Access Control and Network Intrusion Protection, to discuss your network security solutions get in touch with our team today!