The Cisco platform makes possible a universal method because, unlike traditional security approaches, Cisco ISE has powerful new capabilities that support the consistent enforcement of context-based policies, with complete visibility across wired, wireless, or VPN domains. Other features include: ? Integrated authentication, authorizing, and accounting (AAA), profiling, posture, and guest services ? Device identification using probes, embedded device sensors, endpoint scanning, and device feed services ? Greater visibility and control of endpoints, and simplified BYOD on-boarding through self-service registration To make best use of its IT investment, NHS Tayside has deployed other Cisco Borderless Network innovations. For example, Cisco AnyConnect®, combined with OfficeExtend, provides reliable, effective VPN access, helping staff working from home or on the move to be more productive. Security is enhanced with Cisco ASA 5500 Series Next-Generation Firewalls, which deliver a powerful suite of security services. Added to this, Cisco Wide Area Application Services (WAAS) has improved application performance, especially important for moving images and big data around the network. Wireless reliability was also given detailed attention. “Hospitals tend to have lots of reflective surfaces, such as glass and metal, which can cause wireless LAN performance issues,” says Tovey. “So we’ve used the latest Aironet® access points with CleanAir® technology to minimize radio frequency interference.”Finally, Prime™ brings everything together by providing a common management platform to simplify network configuration, administration, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Results Currently some 250 users are taking advantage of BYOD on iPads, smartphones, Androids, and laptops. They range from clinicians, administrative, and technical staff to external consultants, partners, and contractors. “Before, we required numerous systems and processes to deliver limited remote and mobile access to staff; it was a huge burden,” says Tovey. “Now, we can meet requests faster with a network approach that’s both open and, where it needs to be, locked down and protected.” BYOD is making a huge difference to operational efficiency and the way healthcare is delivered. For example, extending access to pharmacy applications makes it easier for medical staff to automate and validate patient medication, thereby mitigating the risk of paper-based errors. As NHS Tayside continues to digitize and move clinical services online, the Cisco BYOD Smart Solution will help grow return on investment by helping ensure these services can be extended safely to the widest audience possible. Already clinicians, for example, can view high-resolution images on iPads as they walk around the wards. Underpinned with Cisco WAAS bandwidth optimization and remote caching, these images transfer rapidly and consistently from data center servers to users’ tablets. Using Cisco ISE to administer network policy management, the organization can specify precisely how authorized personnel can connect, from which devices and locations, and what they are allowed to do. For example, staff might be granted secure VPN access to systems using AnyConnect and OfficeExtend. Users can be automatically recognized, authenticated, and granted (or denied) access based on how and where they are trying to connect. “With our BYOD Smart Solution, we can facilitate and secure access centrally. The move to ISE has vastly simplified the process, which is easing both compliance and management burdens,” says Tovey.