Wireless Network Access Control (NAC)

What is NAC?
NAC stands for Network Access Control. It is a network security technology that controls what devices access our wireless network.

Why do we need it?
We are implementing NAC on our wireless network to prevent the connection of devices that lack antivirus protection, patches, required policies, or minimum system requirements. This will protect other connected computers and servers and help secure our systems, network, and data. NAC will also help to authenticate users and enforce policies.

When will it take effect?
Barring unforeseen complications, we will turn NAC on in late October.

Who will it effect?
Anyone trying to connect wirelessly to the district network.
Any wireless device.

What happens when I try to connect wirelessly?
A software agent called the Cisco Clean Access Agent will check to see if your computer meets the requirements to access the wireless network. We will be authenticating the user and checking for Sophos Antivirus software and operating system version.

How do I know if I have the Clean Access Agent on my computer?
You will see this icon in the system tray (lower right of your screen) Staff that manage laptop labs or carts of laptops need to start those machines up on the network (if they haven't done so yet) and allow the software and policies to be applied as the machines boot. The process will go much faster if the laptops are connected by wire but if that is not possible, the software will load while you are connected wirelessly, albeit slower. You should restart the laptop after the agent loads so that group policies can update.

Additional info coming as NAC nears...stay tuned...