Inline NAC Design Procedures

2. Determine the Number of NAC Controllers

The number of NAC Controllers to be deployed on the network is a function of the following parameters:

•The network topology.

Because the NAC Controller is placed inline with traffic sourced from connecting end‐ systems, the number of NAC Controllers required is directly dependent on the network topology. After the location of the NAC Controller is identified from the network topology, the minimum number of NAC Controllers can be determined.

•The number of Security Domains configured on the network.

Each NAC Controller can be associated to only one Security Domain. Therefore, the number of NAC Controllers deployed on the network will be greater than or equal to the number of Security Domains configured in NAC Manager. To support redundancy per Security Domain, at least two NAC Controllers must be deployed per Security Domain, as discussed below.

•The number of users and devices that are connected to each Security Domain.

Each NAC Controller appliance has the capability of supporting up to 2000 end‐systems connected downstream as shown in the following table.

Table 5-5 End-System Limits for NAC Controllers

NAC Controller Model

Concurrent End-Systems Supported

 

 

7S4280-19-SYS

Up to 2000

 

 

2S4082-25-SYS

Up to 2000

 

 

To identify the minimum number of NAC Controllers required to support inline NAC, use the following formula:

Number of connecting end‐systems in a Security Domain / Concurrent end‐systems supported by controller type = the number of required NAC Controllers of that type, per Security Domain.

•The configuration of NAC Controller redundancy.

To achieve redundancy at each location in the network where the NAC Controller is positioned, an additional NAC Controller is required, essentially doubling the total number of required NAC Controllers. Redundancy implementation differs between Layer 2 and Layer 3 Controllers.

For a Layer 2 NAC Controller, redundancy is achieved in two different ways. Redundancy for the NAC Policy Enforcement Point (PEP) component of the NAC Controller is achieved by implementing 802.1w/s spanning tree between the redundant NAC Controllers as shown in Figure 5‐9 on page 5‐31. Redundant Layer 2 NAC Controllers are active‐passive when only one spanning tree for one VLAN is configured between the NAC Controllers, and are active‐ active when multiple spanning trees for multiple VLANs are configured between the redundant NAC Controllers. If NAC Controller #1ʹs Policy Enforcement Point (PEP) stops forwarding traffic, the network will automatically converge via 802.1w/s spanning tree to forward traffic through NAC Controller #2.

Redundancy for the NAC Engine component of the NAC Controller is achieved by the redundant NAC Controllers using each other as backup RADIUS servers. If NAC Controller #1ʹs Engine stops processing RADIUS authentication requests, the redundant NAC Engine will take over processing RADIUS messages as shown in Figure 5‐9 on page 5‐31.

5-30 Design Procedures

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Enterasys Networks 9034385 manual Determine the Number of NAC Controllers
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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.
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