When NAC is first deployed, what is one of the initial tasks it performs?

When Network Access Control (NAC) is first deployed, one of its primary tasks is to inventory all connected devices on the network. This initial step is crucial because it allows NAC to identify each device that is attempting to connect to the network. By maintaining a comprehensive inventory of connected devices, NAC can assess their compliance with organizational policies and security standards.

This inventory process involves gathering detailed information about the devices, such as their operating systems, installed software, and security posture. Understanding what devices are present helps in determining whether they are authorized to access the network and if they meet the necessary security requirements. This is an essential precursor to enforcing security measures effectively and managing network access based on device compliance.

Following this inventory phase, NAC systems typically proceed to check devices against defined security policies before granting them access. Thus, the inventory step sets the foundation for subsequent actions like enforcing security policies or making decisions on network access.