Homonym: NAP (Sleep)
NAP stands for Network Access Protection, a technology developed by Microsoft to enhance network security. It helps ensure that devices connecting to a network meet specific health requirements, such as having updated antivirus software or the latest security patches. If a device does not comply, NAP can restrict its access to the network until it meets the necessary standards.
This system works by assessing the health of devices through a process called health evaluation. Once a device is evaluated, NAP can either grant full access, provide limited access to remediation resources, or deny access altogether. This helps protect the network from potential threats posed by unsecure devices.