Cisco has announced a new chapter in the evolution of Network Admission Control, by its incorporation into the company's Cisco Integrated Services Router (ISR).

The Cisco NAC Network Module for Integrated Services Routers introduces a modular security solution that is completely integrated into the network infrastructure. It protects businesses by authenticating, authorising, evaluating and remediating remote user machines connected via wired or wireless links, prior to granting them access to corporate networks.

Designed for branch offices, the NAC Network Module for the Integrated Services Routers claims to resolve potential threats and vulnerabilities locally before they are transferred over the wide-area network (WAN), helping to prevent them from affecting the broader corporate network.

In addition to the ISR network module, Cisco is also enriching its NAC solution with Cisco NAC Profiler, an endpoint-recognition technology that maintains a detailed inventory of networked devices so they can be evaluated before and during their connection to corporate networks.

"Integrating NAC into the routing simplifies operation complexity for our customers and offers a unique solution that traditional security players aren't equipped to provide," said Mick Scully, vice president of product management for Cisco's Security Technology Group. "As businesses support more devices, the Cisco NAC Profiler strengthens IT's ability to protect users and devices without adding another server. Cisco is broadening and deepening the capability that IT has to protect its business, employees, and information."