Network Access Control is the discipline of managing which devices are allowed onto a network and what level of access they should receive once they connect. Instead of depending on user identity or complex authentication workflows, NAC focuses on the devices themselves — how they behave, whether they meet basic security expectations, and whether they pose a risk to the environment.

A modern NAC solution gives organisations constant awareness of what is on their network. It identifies devices the moment they appear, checks their characteristics, and applies the appropriate access automatically. Unknown or suspicious devices can be restricted, while trusted and compliant systems are allowed to operate normally. This helps reduce the chance of rogue equipment, compromised endpoints, and lateral movement within the network.

Because networks today include everything from laptops and mobile phones to printers, cameras, phones, and specialised IoT devices, NAC plays a central role in keeping environments safe. It ensures that only legitimate, healthy devices remain connected, without relying heavily on identity systems or complex authentication setups.

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