Extreme Networks Sentriant Access Guard (AG) NAC platform now addresses large networks and numerous end points with new features that centralize management of multi-server deployments, where a single dedicated management server controls multiple enforcement servers that can be distributed across various buildings or departments. For smaller NAC deployments, a single management server can be deployed that provides embedded enforcement capabilities on one platform.
For greater scalability and reliability of NAC, Sentriant AG now supports load balancing capabilities, where the endpoint testing load is distributed across all enforcement servers in a cluster. This adds redundancy so should one server fail, the security policy remains functional. An enhanced User Interface (UI) provides enterprise-scale administration capabilities, where managers can rapidly access, view, and control all servers and endpoint access information from a single management console. Lastly, new multi-user, role-based administration allows for numerous individuals throughout an organization, each with varying responsibilities and access permissions, to access, manage or view information within the Sentriant AG platform.
Furthering security at the core and edge of the network, Extreme Networks has unveiled its new Extreme Networks Policy Manager (EPM), a powerful management tool that provides visibility into security rules and eases management of Access Control Lists (ACLs). EPM is client-based software used to create security policies and Extreme Networks’ CLEAR-Flow security rules. It also simplifies the management of Access Control Lists, where a holistic view is provided.
A key benefit of EPM is its real-time interaction with Extreme Networks ExtremeXOS-based BlackDiamond and Summit switches, where up-to-the-minute information is provided and changes can be made in real time. EPM supports an easy-to-use GUI interface with security wizards that support complex searching, sorting, change control, and rule import/export.
The efficiency and accuracy of ACLs are enhanced through a series of automated dependency, rule and validation checks being performed. This alerts and removes potential conflicts, helping to keep the network secure from breeches.
"Our new solutions help enterprises with protecting their networks from unsafe devices and to proactively enforce edge security policy," said Suresh Gopalakrishnan, vice president and general manager for the Emerging Products Group at Extreme Networks. "Our NAC solution, Sentriant AG and new policy management tool, EPM, integrated with our powerful CLEAR-Flow security rules engine, helps establish a layered security approach."