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Hello guys, in the previous article, we talked about the basic parts of the network like Network - Layer Network - Packet - OSI Models, and so on.

This time, we want to talk about network access services.

So, First Of All, Whats network access services (NAS)?

NAS refers to services that allow the users to access computer networks or the internet. These services encompass various methods and tech for connection to a network and can be used in different environments, including home networks or public networks.

Key Components of Network Access:

Authentication
- The process of verifying and confirming the identity of a user. This typically involves entering a username and password.
Authorization
- Once the user identity is verified, this step determines what resources and services the user has access to.
Accounting
- Recording and tracking user activities on the network for various purposes such as security, resource management, and billing.
Access Control
- Managing and monitoring user access to the network and its resources based on defined policies and rules.

Types of Network Access Services:

Dial-up
- Using telephone lines to connect to the internet of a network.
Broadband
- Includes DSL, cable, fiber optics, and other high-speed internet connection methods.
Wireless Networks WI-FI
- Connecting to local wireless networks.
VPN (Virtual-Private-Network)
- Creating a source connection to another network over the internet.
Mobile Access
- Using cellular networks (such as 3G 4G 5G) to connect to the internet.

Applications of Network Access Services

Companies and Organizations
- This is to connect employees to the internal company network and access internal resources remotely .
Internet Service Providers(ISPs)
- To provide internet access to residential and business customers.
Public Places
- Such as hotels, airports, and coffee shops that offer public WI-FI services.

Protocols & TECH

RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-in User Service)
- A networking protocol for authentication and authorization services
TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus)
- A protocol for providing authentication and authorization services
802.1X:
- A standard for networking access control based on the IEEE protocol

Network Access Services are a fundamental part of network management and information security, ensuring secure and efficient user access to network resources.

Thanks for reading.

Regards Elliot :)