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DGS-3700-12/DGS-3700-12G Series Layer 2 Gigabit Ethernet Switch User Manual
157
Client
The Client is simply the endstation that wishes to gain access to the LAN or switch services. All endstations must be
running software that is compliant with the 802.1X protocol. For users running Windows XP or Windows Vista, that
software is included within the operating system. All other users are required to attain 802.1X client software from an
outside source. The Client will request access to the LAN and or Switch through EAPOL packets and, in turn will
respond to requests from the Switch.
Figure 5 - 18 The Client
Authentication Process
Utilizing the three roles stated above, the 802.1X protocol provides a stable and secure way of authorizing and
authenticating users attempting to access the network. Only EAPOL traffic is allowed to pass through the specified
port before a successful authentication is made. This port is “locked” until the point when a Client with the correct
username and password (and MAC address if 802.1X is enabled by MAC address) is granted access and therefore
successfully “unlocks” the port. Once unlocked, normal traffic is allowed to pass through the port. The following figure
displays a more detailed explanation of how the authentication process is completed between the three roles stated
above.
Figure 5 - 19 The 802.1X Authentication Process
The D-Link implementation of 802.1X allows network administrators to choose between two types of Access Control
used on the Switch, which are:
1. Port-Based Access Control – This method requires only one user to be authenticated per port by a remote
RADIUS server to allow the remaining users on the same port access to the network.
2. Host-Based Access Control – Using this method, the Switch will automatically learn up to sixteen MAC
addresses by port and set them in a list. Each MAC address must be authenticated by the Switch using a
remote RADIUS server before being allowed access to the Network.