The way we work is different now then it was even five years ago—shouldn’t your network’s accessibility reflect that change? The sophistication of modern cybersecurity threats, the increase in remotely-staffed workers, and software and hardware upgrades all dictate that your company needs a solution that fits the current technological climate. Everything from your network security design to your network access control (NAC) needs to be updated to embrace new developments so that your technology makes your life easier, rather than further complicating your day-to-day operations. So how do you do that? Implement network access control. We’ve listed some useful information that every company needs to make sure that their network security design is up-to-date.
What is network access control?
While utilizing a laptop for business and personal reasons is more convenient than remaining at one desk in one building every day, it invites a host of security concerns for your business-critical information. After entering the market a few years ago, NAC solutions have regained control that was lost in the wake of migrating toward flexible, accessible alternatives in the modern workplace. They provide an endpoint assessment of the computer, enabling access and enforcing a specific security policy based on the hardware and the user.
Sound, high-quality NAC solutions offer a centralized management system for remote employees and guest users. While that may have been cause for concern in the past, modern access control systems enable user-friendly access without exposing the rest of your network. Network administrators now don’t have to worry about the security of their internal network nearly as much as they have in the past. But how do you go about implementing network access control?
How do you install network access control?
Migrating to any new system can be daunting for your company. Ideally, the move will take place over time, so that you don’t have to worry about serious downtime or important information getting lost in the shuffle. Here are some useful steps for implementing network access controls without compromising network performance:
- Gather information—monitor your network and make sure that you’re aware of what devices need access, and how frequently.
- Analyze the cost of migration—make sure that you have everything accounted for before you begin the transition.
- Train your staff—if you’re implementing a new, accessible wireless network solution, it’s imperative that your employees are up to speed and aware of how they need to access the new solution.
- Account for every computer—don’t let one bad apple spoil the whole bunch. Make sure that every device is compliant with new standards so that the security of your entire network isn’t at risk of being compromised. Make sure they know to handle issues in real-time.
- Prep your clients—don’t leave the most important part of your company in the dark. Let them know about specific changes you’re making to your network if those changes affect them too.
Not every company takes the necessary steps to install a useful, structurally sound, network access control solution for their system. Take the time you need to get everyone up to speed so that the changes don’t disrupt productivity, confuse your staff, and compromise your network’s security.
