Unmanaged devices on an organization’s network can pose significant security risks and compliance issues. These devices, which have not been enrolled in a Mobile Device Management (MDM), Unified Endpoint Management (UEM), or Active Directory (AD) domain, lack the necessary security settings and health checks required to adhere to the organization’s security policies.
As organizations have expanded to include non-Windows devices on their networks, the prevalence of unmanaged devices has increased. These devices can easily connect to the network through various means, such as Wi-Fi networks or VPNs with Network Access Control (NAC) services. However, the lack of proper monitoring and enforcement of security policies on these networks can lead to unmanaged devices slipping through undetected.
One common way unmanaged devices can enter a network is through personal devices connecting to the organization’s Wi-Fi network without undergoing the necessary enrollment processes. Additionally, vendors or partners connecting to a guest Wi-Fi network with poor isolation can inadvertently access resources on the organization’s production network, further increasing the risk of unmanaged devices compromising network security.
While some unmanaged devices may connect to the network innocently, others may be deliberately introduced by users circumventing security measures. Unauthorized devices connected to network jacks or IoT devices that cannot be enrolled in the organization’s UEM pose significant threats to cybersecurity and can serve as entry points for attackers.
The presence of unmanaged devices on a network can lead to malware infections, security vulnerabilities, and non-compliance with organizational security requirements. These devices are not included in centralized reporting or compliance initiatives, leaving the network exposed to potential risks.
To address the problem of unmanaged devices, organizations can utilize techniques such as MAC address filtering, network inventory tools, and AI-based user and device behavior analytics. By tracking unknown MAC addresses, identifying devices on the network, and detecting anomalies in behavior, organizations can better detect and manage unmanaged devices.
Implementing a Network Access Control (NAC) system that requires all devices to enroll before connecting to the network is a recommended solution. By ensuring that all devices pass through the NAC, organizations can enforce security policies and prevent unmanaged devices from compromising network security.
Overall, managing unmanaged devices on a network is crucial for maintaining a secure and compliant environment. By implementing proper detection and mitigation strategies, organizations can reduce the risk posed by unmanaged devices and enhance their overall security posture.