Aruba Networks Integrates NAC with MDM and MAM

Packaging network access control (NAC), mobile device management (MDM), and mobile application management (MAM) into a single solution was one way of responding to the bring your own device (BYOD) trend for one provider. NAC vendor Aruba Networks (NASDAQ:ARUN) has released Aruba WorkSpace in hopes of securing company data and reducing BYOD helpdesk costs through the integration of network, device and application management. Here's the scoop.

The company added Aruba WorkSpace as a new component to its ClearPass Access Management System, which aims to assist managed services providers (MSPs) with tackling BYOD by controlling mobility services.

What is the product?

The solution is built on a enterprise network policy system that, according to the company, categorizes Aruba Workspace a “network-fluent” product, which means higher network priority can be automatically assigned to work applications. The company gave an example of an employee connecting to an untrusted network. If this occurs, Aruba WorkSpace can automatically establish application-specific virtual private networks (VPNs) to encrypt traffic and provide uninterrupted access to internal resources. Jail-broken devices or unapproved mobile applications can also be restricted through the solution.

“With mobile device and application proliferation accelerating at an unprecedented pace, IT departments simply need a solution that eliminates the extra work and expense associated with bridging the silos across the network, the device and the application,” said Aruba Networks CTO Keerti Melkote (pictured) in a prepared statement. “By integrating our core strengths for network access control and security we can streamline the BYOD process and take the burden and risk away from the IT department.”

Devices will be managed through an Aruba WorkSpace mobile application on employee devices. To protect personal data on devices, the application provisions a separate, encrypted area on the devices for work applications and content.

Aruba's Alternative to Native Device Management Functions

Aruba ClearPass also features integration with MDM vendors, including AirWatch, Citrix, Fiberlink, JAMF Software, MobileIron and SOTI, to provide customers with a range of MDM capabilities. An AirWatch spokesperson explained to us that Aruba is managing the network view, and the other vendors are managing the actual devices on the network. MSPs can manage from either side of the solution.

Aruba WorkSpace Partner Program

The company also announced its Aruba WorkSpace Partner Program to integrate mobile applications into its BYOD management as well. More than 40 applications have already been integrated through this new partner program, including apps in file access, business analysis, collaboration, office document editors, education, enterprise productivity, healthcare, and file sharing. Customers can also upload custom applications to their unique Aruba WorkSpace Enterprise App Store.

To learn more about the Aruba WorkSpace Partner program, visit the company's website.

The company said Aruba WorkSpace software for ClearPass is in beta testing and a client-side software application called Aruba WorkSpace for both iOS and Samsung Android-based devices is expected to be available from the Apple App Store and The Google Play marketplace will be available in July 2013.