Network Security

Choosing the right Network Access Control (NAC) solution can be challenging. This NAC comparison breaks down the key differences between Portnox Cloud and Cisco ISE across deployment, scalability, cost, and Zero Trust readiness. NAC remains one of the most effective ways to secure enterprise environments. This is especially so as hybrid work, BYOD, and IoT…


What is a cyber kill chain attack? A cyber kill chain attack refers to a framework that breaks down the stages of a cyberattack-from the initial planning to the execution and completion of malicious goals. It’s a model originally developed by Lockheed Martin to help organizations understand, detect, and defend against advanced persistent threats (APTs).…

What are Indicators of Attack?   In cybersecurity, Indicators of Attack (IoAs) are the signs or pieces of evidence that indicate an attacker is actively attempting to compromise a system or network. They focus on the attacker’s intent and actions, rather than the specific tools or malware they might be using. This approach helps security professionals…

What does Zero Trust for Multi-Cloud mean?  Zero trust for multi-cloud environments means extending the core principles of zero trust security to networks that span multiple cloud providers, ensuring that no user, device, or application is inherently trusted and that access is granted based on continuous verification and least privilege, regardless of location or network.   Here’s…

As enterprises move away from VPNs and perimeter-based access models, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is quickly becoming the gold standard for secure, scalable remote access. But not all ZTNA solutions are created equal. Some require agents. Others only focus on identity without device context. Many promise “zero trust” while offering little more than access…

For decades, the Virtual Private Network (VPN) was the de facto standard for remote access. But with today’s workforce operating from everywhere—and applications no longer confined to on-prem environments—VPNs are falling short. That’s where Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) steps in. This guide breaks down the key differences in the ZTNA vs. VPN debate, and…

What is context-aware access? Context-aware network access is a security mechanism that dynamically enforces access policies based on the specific context of a user or device trying to access a system. It enhances traditional access control methods by adapting to additional real-time variables beyond static credentials or user roles. Key Components of Context-Aware Access User…

What is RADIUS and how does it work? What is RADIUS? RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. It is a protocol that provides centralized Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) for users who connect and use a network service. It was originally developed for dial-up networks but is now widely used for managing access…

What are Portnox Cloud RADIUS and FreeRADIUS? Portnox Cloud RADIUS is a cloud-native, fully managed RADIUS-as-a-service offering. It’s part of the broader Portnox Cloud platform, purpose-built to support modern authentication use cases like passwordless login, device trust, and Zero Trust access policies—without on-prem infrastructure. FreeRADIUS, on the other hand, is a powerful, open-source RADIUS server…

How well does Ivanti Policy Secure work in diverse infrastructure environments? It supports multi-vendor environments—if you’re willing to work for it. Ivanti Policy Secure can integrate with a wide range of switches, firewalls, and wireless infrastructure using standard protocols (RADIUS, SNMP, 802.1X). However, many of its advanced features require detailed, time-consuming configuration, and full policy…

Does NordLayer provide full network access control across any environment? Not really. NordLayer’s access control focuses on endpoint-device compliance and secure remote tunneling, not true network enforcement. It allows admins to define basic access policies based on device posture (e.g., OS version, AV status) and restrict traffic through its hosted gateways. However, it does not…

Does Meraki cloud RADIUS provide full network access control? Not really—it’s authentication without enforcement. Meraki’s RADIUS integration enables basic user authentication (via 802.1X) for Wi-Fi and wired ports, but once a device connects, there’s no native support for posture checks, continuous compliance, or dynamic policy enforcement. The access decision is binary: allow or deny. Beyond…