Network Access Protection (NAP)

Network Access Protection (NAP) is a policy enforcement platform built into Microsoft Windows Vista. NAP is an policy that requires and enforces that a PC's health status be compliant before gaining access to a networked computer in Vista. When a computer attempts to gain access to a network, it's health status is audited, and if the system is not running with the latest patches, virus updates and other security-related concerns, it could be given restricted access or denied access to a network based on the customized policies setup by the administrator.

NAP is currently available in Vista, Windows Server “Longhorn” and is currently in Beta for XP. To access the Network Access Protection configuration in Vista, go to Start>Control Panel>System and Maintenance and then Administrative Tools. Double-click the NAP Client Configuration.

From the NAP configuration client, Admins can setup policies for DHCP clients and remote access clients. Policies can also be setup for terminal service and VPN clients. These policies will prevent computers violating the predefined policy from accessing critical network resources. It can instruct uses on how to update their PCs, and even block violators completely from the private network.

Virus and security risks to a network have always been a problem. With Microsoft's proactive plan toward thwarting malicious code through in inclusion of Defender, Automatic Updates and a Firewall that is on by default, Windows is quickly making it more difficult for viruses to propagate unimpeded. The addition of Network Access Protection is another step toward ensuring that computers are running updated patches and practicing safe behavior.

If you'd like more information about Vista's security enhancements, be sure to read our Vista articles or visit us on our message board today.

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