There are generally two main strands of NAC, which are both key to fundamental network security:
**Pre-admission:** Upon receiving a request from a user or device to access the network, pre-admission NAC assesses the attempt and grants entry based on proof of compliance with the network’s security policies — usually through authentication methods like 2FA or biometrics.
**Post-admission:** If the user or device attempts to access another network area from within, post-admission NAC can restrict movement before further authentication to limit damage from a cyberattack.
NordLayer is an adaptive network security solution that comprises pre-admission and post-admission features, designed to ensure only authorized users and endpoints can access specific areas of the business network.