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No, Aruba ClearPass is not a firewall. Instead, it is a Network Access Control (NAC) and Policy Management solution that works alongside firewalls and other security tools to provide identity-based access, device visibility, and automated security enforcement. While a firewall focuses on traffic filtering and perimeter protection, ClearPass ensures that only the right users and devices gain the right level of access inside the network.
Aruba ClearPass is designed to secure enterprise environments by:
Authenticating and authorizing users, devices, and applications before granting access
Creating role-based policies based on user identity, device type, location, and security posture
Offering BYOD onboarding and guest access portals for employees, contractors, and visitors
Integrating with firewalls, SIEMs, and threat intelligence platforms to automate threat detection and response
Providing compliance enforcement across wired, wireless, and VPN connections
A firewall is a network security system that:
Monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic
Enforces rules to block or allow traffic based on IP addresses, ports, or protocols
Acts as a perimeter defense, protecting the network from external threats
A firewall protects the network perimeter, but once inside, it cannot always verify user identity or device health.
ClearPass provides granular access control by making sure every user or device is authenticated and compliant before communication begins.
When integrated, ClearPass can send contextual security information to firewalls, enabling dynamic policies (e.g., quarantining an infected device).
? Aruba ClearPass is not a firewall—it is a NAC and policy enforcement platform that complements firewalls. ClearPass focuses on who and what is connecting, while firewalls focus on traffic and perimeter defense.
Together, they deliver a Zero Trust security model, giving enterprises stronger protection against insider threats, IoT risks, and evolving cyberattacks.
At Microtek Learning, we provide Aruba ClearPass training programs that help IT professionals understand how to deploy and integrate this solution with firewalls and other security tools for end-to-end network protection.