SNC is a software layer in the SAP system architecture that provides an interface to an external security product. With SNC, you can strengthen the security of your SAP system by implementing additional security functions that SAP systems do not directly provide (for example, the use of smart cards for user authentication).

SNC provides security at the application level. This means that a secure connection between the components of the SAP system (for example, between the SAP GUI and the SAP application server) is guaranteed, regardless of the communication link or transport medium (see the following figure). You therefore have a secure network connection between two SNC-enabled communication partners.

For more information about the connections in SAP systems that support the use of SNC, see SNC-Protected Communication Paths in SAP Systems.