Model 3: End-System Authorization with Assessment

A RADIUS server is only required if out‐of‐band network access control using the NAC Gateway, or inline network access control using the Layer 2 NAC Controller, is implemented with web‐ based and/or 802.1X authentication.

NetSight Policy Manager is required for all inline NAC deployments, and recommended for out‐ of‐band NAC deployments that utilize Enterasys policy‐capable switches. Policy Manager provides the ability to centrally define and configure the authorization levels or policies.

NetSight Inventory Manager is an optional component, providing comprehensive network inventory and change management capabilities.

Model 3: End-System Authorization with Assessment

This NAC deployment model implements the detection, authentication, assessment and authorization NAC functionalities for connecting end‐systems. In Model 2, end‐systems and end users connected to the network are authorized based on the device identity, user identity, and/or location information. Model 3 extends the authorization decision in NAC to one additional dimension — the security posture of the end‐system as determined from an assessment. The assessment can be executed through agent‐based or agent‐less techniques and can identify different pieces of information about the device, such an antivirus software configuration, operating system patches installed, software applications installed and running, processes running, services configured, and registry values set.

It is important to note that it is not necessary to configure the Enterasys NAC solution to quarantine end‐systems that fail assessment. In fact, during the initial rollout of NAC on the enterprise network, it is highly recommended that end‐systems are not restricted access to the network in any way before, during, or after failed assessment. This passive NAC configuration allows the IT administrator to baseline the configuration of devices on the network and understand the current landscape of its assets without impacting network connectivity for connecting end‐systems. In this configuration, it is not necessary to inform the end users that they are being assessed or have failed assessment because there is little‐to‐no impact on network connectivity during this assessment. End‐systems can be scanned in the background providing the network administrator with important visibility into how devices are configured on their network, while end users can utilize the network as desired. Then, when the network administrator is ready, the Enterasys NAC solution can be configured with the click of a button to immediately restrict access for end‐systems that have failed assessment.

Implementation

In Model 3, end‐systems can be detected and tracked, authenticated, assessed, and authorized in different ways depending on whether inline or out‐of‐band network access control is implemented in the Enterasys NAC solution.

Out-of-Band NAC

For out‐of‐band Enterasys NAC deployments utilizing the NAC Gateway, NAC functions are implemented in the following way:

Detection ‐ As described in Model 2.

Authentication ‐ As described in Model 2.

Assessment ‐ The NAC Gateway can leverage either local assessment services and/or remote assessment services deployed on the network. The NAC Gatewayʹs local assessment services include agent‐less assessment which can execute various server‐side checks (whether an FTP

2-8 NAC Deployment Models

Page 29 Page 31
Page 30
Image 30
Enterasys Networks 9034385 manual Model 3 End-System Authorization with Assessment, Implementation
Page 29 Page 31

9034385 specifications

Enterasys Networks 9034385 is a powerful networking component designed to enhance enterprise-level connectivity and ensure robust network management capabilities. This device offers a wide range of features that cater to the demanding requirements of modern businesses, focusing on performance, reliability, and security.

One of the main features of the Enterasys Networks 9034385 is its advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities, which enable efficient data processing and robust network performance. With support for various VLAN configurations, the device allows organizations to segment their networks effectively, leading to improved security and better traffic management.

Another critical aspect of the 9034385 is its support for high-speed connectivity. The device features multiple gigabit Ethernet ports, providing sufficient bandwidth for data-intensive applications commonly used in enterprise environments. The high-speed connections ensure that users can access applications and data quickly and reliably, minimizing latency issues that can affect productivity.

In terms of management, Enterasys Networks has equipped the 9034385 with advanced monitoring and diagnostic tools. These capabilities allow network administrators to track performance metrics, identify potential issues proactively, and make informed decisions about network resource allocation. The inclusion of SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) facilitates seamless integration with network management systems, providing comprehensive oversight of network health and performance.

Security is a paramount consideration for the 9034385, which incorporates advanced security protocols to protect sensitive data. Features such as port security, DHCP snooping, and dynamic ARP inspection help safeguard the network against unauthorized access and cyber threats. Furthermore, the device supports authentication mechanisms like 802.1X, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can connect to the network.

The Enterasys Networks 9034385 also stands out due to its seamless integration with cloud-based services and support for virtualization technologies. This compatibility enables organizations to adopt flexible architectures and manage their resources more efficiently. Additionally, the device is designed with scalability in mind, allowing businesses to expand their networks without significant hardware changes or disruptions.

Overall, the Enterasys Networks 9034385 is a versatile and powerful networking solution ideal for enterprises looking to enhance their network infrastructure while ensuring performance, security, and ease of management. The combination of advanced features and technologies makes it a valuable asset for businesses of all sizes striving for efficient and reliable connectivity.
Top Page Image Contents