NAC and SOC: The Dynamic Duo that Keeps Ransomware Attacks at Bay

Daily, you hear about new ransomware attacks on global organizations, making it necessary to have both NAC
(Network Access Control) and SOC (Security Operations Center) in place to protect networks. These two function
together to block ransomware from moving within networks. In this blog, we explain how NAC and SOC work together
to halt the progress of ransomware before it can do any critical damage.

How Ransomware Spreads

As soon as ransomware enters a network, it spreads at breakneck speed. Attackers use a variety of tactics to
deploy it, including:

• Nefarious Emails: Emails pretending to be someone you know with an attachment or a link.
• Targeting Vulnerabilities: Attackers leverage old software and system vulnerabilities.
• Weak Credentials: Passwords get weak or compromised, allowing attackers in.
• Move Laterally: Once inside, ransomware uses existing connections on the network to spread across devices.

After ransomware encrypts files, hackers demand a ransom to regain access. The damage can be devastating if
ransomware spreads across the network. And that’s where NAC and SOC come in.

NAC for Access Restriction

NAC Security is key to preventing ransomware at the front door. It defines what devices can access the network
and applies security policies. Here’s how NAC helps:

• Device Authentication: No one gets access to the network except trusted devices. If the
  device is unknown or unmanaged, NAC blocks it.
• Zero Trust: NAC prevents all users from accessing everything inside, not even internal users.
• Network Segmentation: NAC restricts access from one network segment to another, ensuring
  ransomware cannot spread if it infects one end device.
• Automated Threat Response: When NAC identifies suspicious behavior, it isolates infected
  devices to stop further propagation.

NAC Security works to lock down your organization’s networks so that ransomware causes minimal damage and is
stopped before spreading.

SOC for Real-Time Detection

While NAC provides access control, SOC Threat Detection monitors network activity in real-time and responds to
breaches immediately. Here’s how SOC defends against ransomware:

• 24/7 Threat Monitoring: SOC teams rely on security tools to identify abnormal activity that
  could signal a ransomware attack.
• Behavior Analysis: SOC tools analyze traffic and identify abnormal behaviors, such as rapid
  encryption of files.
• Automated Incident Response: SOC systems can issue alerts and isolate infected devices
  before ransomware can spread.
• Threat Intelligence: SOC monitors the development of new ransomware techniques and modifies
  defenses accordingly.

SOC is crucial in detecting ransomware early so that quick measures can prevent a larger impact. When combined
with NAC, it provides a complementary approach to ransomware prevention.

PJ Networks — Fortinet NAC & SOC Ransomware Protection

Complete Endpoint and Network Ransomware Protection: PJ Networks, a Fortinet advantage, exclusively
integrates Fortinet NAC and SOC solutions. Here’s how this security arrangement protects companies:

• Fortinet NAC Security: Secure devices are granted access through advanced access control
  policies. Suspicious devices are detected and blocked immediately.
• FortiSOC Threat Detection: Ransomware attacks are detected early and in real-time to prevent
  infections from spreading.
• Automated Incident Response: If a threat is detected, the system automatically responds to
  contain it.
• AI-Powered Analytics: Machine learning is used to monitor network behavior, assisting in
  identifying ransomware before execution.

PJ Networks significantly reduces the risk of ransomware using a multi-layered approach that combines NAC and SOC.

Conclusion

Ransomware attacks continue to evolve, but with NAC Security and SOC Threat Detection working in tandem,
enterprises can build a solid defense. NAC limits access so that only the correct devices gain entry, while SOC
watches for threats and reacts immediately if something goes awry.

Ransomware Prevention: Businesses Need to Protect Their Networks — Using solutions like
Fortinet’s NAC and SOC, organizations can prevent ransomware from disrupting their business. Stop ransomware
before it spreads, protect your business.