For many NetScaler features, policies control how a feature evaluates data. A policy uses a logical expression, called as rule, to evaluate data, and applies one or more actions based on evaluation. Alternatively, a policy can apply a profile, which defines a complex action.

NetScaler evaluates policies in a specific order. It first checks for global policies, and then checks for policies bound to individual points such as Virtual IPs (VIPs) or Citrix Gateways.

When multiple policies are bound to a single point, NetScaler evaluates them in order of priority, with higher-priority policies evaluated first.

If a policy is true, the corresponding action is added to the list of actions to be performed. Additionally, each policy includes a “goto expression” that specifies the next policy to be evaluated.

Once all policies have been evaluated, or when the goto expression is set to “end”, NetScaler performs the actions in the action list.