Network Access Protection (NAP) is a new platform and solution that controls access to network resources based on a client computer’s identity and compliance with a corporate governance policy.

Out-of-date service packs, missing patches and inactive firewalls all render your endpoints vulnerable to malware attacks, making them a real security risk to your organisation. NAP is a mechanism where upon attempting to log onto a network a check is made on the client (called a Challenge) to ensure that certain security requirements are met. These compliance checks can include ensuring latest anti-virus, anti-spyware or windows patches are installed. If the requirements are not met then a number of options are available including offering restricted access, redirecting to a remediation area or disallowing logon. The purpose of this is to try and prevent “unhealthy” devices accessing the network and placing others at risk.