Belden NAC vs EasyNAC

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.

EasyNAC provides network visibility and Zero Trust access control for devices on wired and wireless networks. Typical deployments discover and profile devices without agents. Out-of-band ARP enforcement can restrict unauthorized devices, while inline enforcement is available for remote-access VPN protection. EasyNAC can receive syslog events or email alerts from security systems and restrict an affected device. Listed integrations include Active Directory, Entra ID, Defender, Intune, CrowdStrike Falcon, SentinelOne, and Sophos Central. Organizations can offer BYOD self-registration and guest registration through a captive portal with configurable policies. Hardware and virtual appliances are available, and virtual appliances can run on-premises or in the cloud. Enforcer Sensors extend visibility to remote sites on Windows, Linux, or Raspberry Pi systems. Appliance capacities range from 300 to 10,000 devices depending on configuration. Licensing counts unique MAC addresses seen in five minutes; perpetual and subscription options exist, with agents purchased separately. Linux, Windows, and self-hosted deployments are listed. Pricing is available on request.