Genian NAC vs PacketFence

Genian NAC evaluates device identity, posture, and connection context to decide what network access a device receives. Its Layer 2 Network Sensor detects IP-enabled devices in real time without requiring changes to existing network configuration. Device Platform Intelligence adds identity, business context, and vulnerability details, including CVEs. Access controls include 802.1X RADIUS and DHCP, ARP enforcement, TCP reset, inline enforcement, and actions through firewalls or switch ports. Policies can group devices using more than 500 predefined conditions and quarantine or remediate devices that fail requirements. BYOD and guest tools include a captive portal, self-service compliance guidance, role-based access, and approval workflows. The optional agent can manage desktop settings, applications, OS updates, peripherals, wireless connections, and scripts. Genian NAC supports wired, wireless, VPN, and 802.1X access control, and offers cloud-managed, on-premises, and service options. It runs on API, Linux, macOS, self-hosted, web, and Windows platforms. The listed offer includes a 30-day trial, but no free plan.

PacketFence is an enterprise network access control platform for organizations managing wired, wireless, and VPN access. It can enforce policy through SNMP or RADIUS, inline Layer 2 or Layer 3 deployment, VLAN assignment, and quarantine isolation. Authentication options include 802.1X/EAP, directory services, external RADIUS, OAuth2 social login, SAML 2.0, and PKI certificates. Guest workflows include self-registration, sponsored access, email or SMS confirmation, and CSV imports. Self-service provisioning can configure 802.1X profiles for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. The platform checks antivirus, operating system patch level, and security-agent presence, and can quarantine devices that fail policy. Administrators get a web interface, command-line tools, REST API, customizable captive portals, and Perl extension points. The self-hosted Community Edition is GPL v2+ with unlimited devices and full source code. Its listed minimum requirements include Debian 12.x or RHEL 8.x, four CPU cores, 16 GB RAM, 200 GB disk, and a network interface. Paid plans include Starter at $5,000 /year for up to 250 registered devices.