Building Zero Trust: How Identity and NAC Are Redefining Network Security

The term “zero trust” is everywhere, and yet it's realization remains elusive for most organizations. Even it's definition is misunderstood. Is it a product, a framework, or just another marketing buzzword? The truth is, zero trust is a strategy—one that focuses on validating every access request based on multiple factors before granting trust. At its core, zero trust is about identity.

For managed services providers (MSPs) and their clients, zero trust offers a path to stronger, more resilient networks. Let’s unpack what it means, why it’s critical, and how your organization can begin its journey.

Why Zero Trust Matters Now More Than Ever

Cybersecurity threats have evolved beyond perimeter breaches. Attackers now target what lies inside—your users and devices. Identity is the crown jewel for attackers because it’s the key to everything. A compromised identity can grant them access to sensitive systems, allowing them to pivot across your network undetected.

To counter this, organizations must rethink their approach to security. Traditional methods—such as domain-based access controls or simple credential validation—are no longer sufficient. A zero-trust strategy introduces a layered approach, ensuring that every access attempt is verified based on context, compliance, and behavior.

The Role of Network Access Control (NAC) in Zero Trust

Network Access Control (NAC) is both a concept and a solution. As a concept, it refers to the policies and controls used to manage network access. As a solution, it includes tools like Cisco ISE, ClearPass, and EDR platforms that enforce these policies. NAC is a key enabler of zero trust because it provides the mechanisms to validate identity and manage access dynamically.

Consider this example: A device attempts to connect to your network. Traditionally, you might check if it’s domain-joined or has a valid certificate. But zero trust asks more:

         •      Is the device compliant with security policies (e.g., antivirus installed, firewall enabled)?

         •      Is the device connecting from a known location?

         •      Does its behavior align with the user’s historical activity?

By layering these checks, NAC solutions provide a more holistic view of identity and dramatically reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Workshops: A Starting Point for Zero Trust

For successful zero trust initiatives, the path to zero trust starts with understanding. At Prescriptive, we offer free workshops to help organizations evaluate their security posture and map out a plan for zero trust implementation. We dive deep into identity, NAC, and layered defenses to produce three key deliverables: 

• An Identity Mapping document that outlines how users, devices, and systems are identified and validated within your environment.
• An MFA Strategy ensuring that multi-factor authentication is implemented effectively.
• A Zero Trust Roadmap, a tailored plan that highlights immediate priorities, gaps, and next steps. 

Identity: The Foundation of Zero Trust

Identity goes beyond usernames, passwords, and even multi-factor authentication (MFA). It encompasses everything about a user or device that can be validated:

         •      Credentials: Are they valid and uncompromised?

         •      Location: Is access coming from a trusted region or an unexpected one?

         •      Compliance: Does the device meet your organization’s security standards?

         •      Behavior: Is the activity consistent with what’s expected?

By building a multifactor identity framework, you establish a foundation for zero trust. The stronger the identity validation, the harder it is for attackers to compromise your systems. 

From Identity to Implementation

Zero trust isn’t a product you can install or a checkbox you can mark. It’s an ongoing journey that requires careful planning and execution. Workshops like those offered by Prescriptive provide a guided approach:

         1.     Understand Your Environment: What devices, users, and access points exist today?

         2.     Map Your Identity: Define what identity means in your context and how it’s validated.

         3.     Prioritize Efforts: Start with high-risk access points, such as wireless networks or external-facing applications.

         4.     Build Layered Defenses: Use tools like NAC, EDR, and SASE to enforce access policies and continuously validate identity.

Ready to Start Your Zero Trust Journey?

Zero trust is more than a cybersecurity buzzword—it’s a practical strategy for defending your network against evolving threats. By starting with identity and layering additional controls, you can create a more resilient, secure environment.

Want to learn more? Leverage one of our free workshops and take the first step toward building your zero trust architecture. Whether it’s understanding NAC, optimizing your Azure network, or improving wireless access, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to reserve your spot. Together, we can build a secure future.