Network Access Control For Dummies®

7.3. Networking Social

You may have the networking team (as opposed to the networking security team, discussed in the section "A Team Security Blanket," earlier in this chapter) involved in the search for a NAC solution. They can help set criteria for network access control, as well as help select and purchase the right NAC solution for your organization. The networking team may even, in some cases, drive the NAC decision-making process — particularly if the NAC solution or solutions that you're considering include any sort of network appliance or device.

Here are the differences between a network security team and a networking team:

• The networking team at most organizations is responsible for the selection, deployment, management, and administration of the network infrastructure. Network infrastructure can refer to the backbone of the network, as well as the access points for, types of appliances and devices on, and the appliances and devices that connect to the network. It also refers to the appliances and equipment — the physical devices themselves — that the organization uses to communicate data and information throughout the network and beyond. So, devices such as routers, hubs, gateways, bridges, and even Ethernet switches and wireless access points can fall under the control of the networking team.

  The networking team is in charge of

  • Wired network infrastructure: The miles and miles of cables that connect network infrastructure devices, the operating systems and management ...