Auconet BICS vs Belden NAC

Auconet BICS is an IT operations, systems management, network access control, and service management platform for large and multi-tenant networks. It provides real-time discovery, monitoring, management, and control for mixed device environments, including servers, desktops, ATMs, kiosks, retail POS systems, mobile devices, cameras, pumps, and sensors. BICS consolidates device and endpoint information into a real-time configuration management database and supports shared commands and workflows across vendors. One central console can manage hundreds of thousands of network elements. Access security includes MAC Layer-2 authentication and IEEE 802.1X, separately or together, with policies for wired and wireless endpoints. BICS can discover and monitor SCADA infrastructure, while Data Centers and Security variants add data-center automation and IT or industrial access controls. Deployment options include cloud, on-premises appliance, virtual on-premises, and multi-tenant implementations. Agentless discovery is available through Auconet ESF, and open APIs can connect visibility data with security systems such as SIEMs, vulnerability tools, and firewalls. Auconet says implementation can take hours, with discovery and visualization beginning immediately.

Belden NAC is network access control software for critical IT and OT networks, providing network visibility, device authentication, and granular access control. Its overview shows graphical reports and topology, identifies endpoints, and detects deviations from expected status. Authentication uses 802.1X through an integrated RADIUS server with MAC addresses, credentials, or certificates, and can connect to existing identity stores. VLAN Manager supports static and dynamic segmentation. Guest Service grants external devices temporary, time-limited access to defined LAN and Wi-Fi resources. Advanced Security gathers endpoint details and network measurements to detect devices and incidents such as ARP or MAC spoofing. The software is available as a physical or virtual appliance for VMware, Nutanix AHV, Proxmox, and Hyper-V; Belden says no customer-provided operating system is required. Switches and routers must be manageable through SNMP V1, V2c, or V3 with read and write access, or through SSH or Telnet. Pricing is on request. Packages combine core NAC features, with individually added add-ons and special tiers for smaller companies. A managed service option is also available.