Cisco Secure Access VPNaaS & ISE Posture Integration

In today’s complex hybrid work environment, securing access to both private and public resources is more challenging than ever.

Cisco Secure Access offers a modern solution that addresses these needs by combining multiple access methods—Such as VPN as a Service (VPNaaS), client-based, clientless, Zero Trust access, and IPSec tunnels for branch connectivity, and core SSE functionality—Into a single, easy-to-manage platform.

This approach empowers organizations to provide secure, seamless access while maintaining a strong security posture, creating an environment that is:

• More secure for everyone through the implementation of Least Privilege Access, minimizing the attack surface by controlling app-level access
• Better for users, boosting productivity by improving secure user access to all applications and resources
• Simpler for IT due to the solution’s ability leverage the cloud to scale your VPN infrastructure without adding physical hardware

Cisco Secure Access VPNaaS and ISE Posture Assessment Integration

Cisco Secure Access with ISE Posture combines the capabilities of Cisco Secure Access VPNaaS with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) Posture Assessment, creating a dynamic, security-focused solution for today’s workforce.

Secure Access VPN as a Service (VPNaaS)

VPNaaS is a cloud-delivered solution designed to provide secure and scalable remote access to an organization’s network. With VPNaaS, users can securely connect to the network from anywhere, without the need for complex configurations or deploying additional hardware. The VPN headend is delivered via the Secure Access cloud, allowing for a seamless, cloud-native experience.

Cisco ISE Posture Assessment

One of the core functions of ISE is Posture Assessment, which ensures that only devices that are compliant against company-mandated security standards, such as having up-to-date antivirus software, secure operating systems, and device encryption, are allowed access onto the network.

When a device attempts to connect to the network, ISE evaluates the device’s security posture. If the device fails to meet at least one of the required standards, ISE can either deny access or redirect the user to resolve the issues (i.e. applying patches or updating antivirus software).

Once the device is within compliance, access is granted.

Integration of Cisco Secure Access with RA-VPNaaS and Cisco ISE Posture Assessment

When Cisco Secure Access integrates with VPNaaS and ISE Posture Assessment, it enables organizations to ensure secure user authentication, device compliance, and continuous network monitoring. This creates a highly secure environment for remote workers without compromising on user experience or productivity.

How the Integration Works:

• User Authentication:
  When a user attempts to connect via VPNaaS, Cisco Secure Access first authenticates the user using pre-configured methods
• Radius Access Request:
  After the user is authenticated, a Radius access request is sent to Cisco ISE, containing the user’s credentials
• User Validation by ISE:
  Cisco ISE validates the user and checks whether they are recognized within Cisco Secure Access. If so, ISE proceeds to initiate a Posture Scan on the user’s device
• Posture Assessment
  ISE checks the device’s compliance with the organization's security policies, including whether antivirus protection is present, patch management, and encryption status, to name a few
• Authorization Based on Compliance:
  • If the device passes the posture check, Cisco Secure Access grants full access to the network
  • If the device fails, access is either denied or the user is placed into a quarantine network to resolve the security issue

• Continuous Monitoring and Dynamic Access Control:
  Once the user is connected, Cisco Secure Access continues to monitor the session to ensure ongoing compliance. If a device becomes non-compliant during the session, access can be dynamically adjusted or revoked, providing real-time protection against security threats

By integrating Cisco Secure Access with RA-VPNaaS and Cisco ISE Posture Assessment, organizations are empowered to:

• Ensure that only compliant, secure devices are allowed to access critical resources
• Simplify management with a cloud-based, scalable VPN solution and centralized policy enforcement
• Enhance user experience and productivity while maintaining a strong security posture

In summary, this solution helps businesses deliver a simplified, efficient, and secure user access experience ideal for today’s hybrid and remote work environments.

To learn more about using ModernCyber's Professional Services to deploy ISE and Cisco Secure Access Integrations, please reach out to the ModernCyber Team to learn more about our Consulting, Deployment, and Enablement Services!