Related Links

Web Seminars

IT organizations are under increasing pressure to address the security gaps created by nonmanaged PCs connecting to the network. The security gaps enterprises are most concerned about include: malware infections, checking the complaince and health of endpoint computers, controlling individual network access, and meeting regulatory requirements.

"The best network security strategy falls short if it doesn't include the risk that threats (such as viruses and spyware) will be carried into the network on unmonitored laptops and computers. The risk is high in any company with mobile users, but can be particularly high in situations where end users such as contractors or students may connect their own computers into an organizations network environment. The labor costs involved in checking computers for health before they connect, or remediating a malware outbreak, add significant costs to help desk operations. Organizations need to take a new look at their endpoint security strategies and understand how NAC products are able to automatically protect and remediate these risks," said Mounil Patel, vice president and research director, Aberdeen.

The latest Information Management & Security benchmark report titled "Endpoint Security Strategies Part I: The Network Access Control Benchmark," announced by Aberdeen, a Harte-Hanks Company, found that the majority of respondents, 59 percent, report a desire to implement NAC in order to reduce incidents of malware propagation. A further 53 percent report that they want the solution to control network access for staff, partners and contractors, while another 42 percent want to enforce endpoint software configurations.

This piece is brought to you by the Information Management editorial staff.