Network access control

Controlling access to networks and information is no longer a simple matter. Growing numbers of home and mobile working employees are accessing the network from a range of devices and locations. At the same time networks and systems are being made available to suppliers, contractors and other third parties. Mobile laptops and non-compliant desktops are susceptible to a myriad of Internet threats, yet are still allowed to access the corporate network and business critical resources.

There are significant business benefits from allowing these devices to access resources and applications, but providing such access without sufficient security controls opens the enterprise to a number of business and security risks and regulatory compliance challenges. Instead of traditional perimeter security where a user is either trusted or untrusted, you need a solution that enables you to build virtual zones of trust' based not just on the user's identity, but which also takes account of the device they're using, its compliance with your desktop policy, the access method and location. Network Access Control allows you to strike the right risk balance for every session, giving users the access they need whilst maintaining the security of your systems and other network users.

Data Integration can offer a range of Access Control and Identity Management solutions to solve these issues. Different approaches include:

• 802.1x based solutions
• Appliance based access control
• Agent based compliance and enforcement
• A combination of the above

We can advise you which approach is most appropriate for your circumstances by considering:

• Whether you are building a new network or want to overlay a solution on your existing network
• Your network capabilities (802.1x, virtualization)
• Cost versus the degree of control you are looking to achieve
• Your level of in-house technical administration resources