Filter
Top Products
xStack DES-3800 Series Layer 3 Stackable Fast Ethernet Managed Switch
239
Authentication Server
The Authentication Server is a remote device that is connected to the same network as the Client and Authenticator, must be
running a RADIUS Server program and must be configured properly on the Authenticator (Switch). Clients connected to a port on
the Switch must be authenticated by the Authentication Server (RADIUS) before attaining any services offered by the Switch on
the LAN. The role of the Authentication Server is to certify the identity of the Client attempting to access the network by
exchanging secure information between the RADIUS server and the Client through EAPOL packets and, in turn, informs the
Switch whether or not the Client is granted access to the LAN and/or switches services.
Figure 11- 6. The Authentication Server
Authenticator
The Authenticator (the Switch) is an intermediary between the Authentication Server and the Client. The Authenticator servers
two purposes when utilizing 802.1x. The first purpose is to request certification information from the Client through EAPOL
packets, which is the only information allowed to pass through the Authenticator before access is granted to the Client. The
second purpose of the Authenticator is to verify the information gathered from the Client with the Authentication Server, and to
then relay that information back to the Client.
Three steps must be implemented on the Switch to properly configure the Authenticator.
1. The 802.1x State must be Enabled. (DES-3800 Web Management Tool)
2. The 802.1x settings must be implemented by port (Security / 802.1x / Configure 802.1X Authenticator Parameter)
3. A RADIUS server must be configured on the Switch. (Security / 802.1x / Authentic RADIUS Server)
Figure 11- 7. The Authenticator