Understanding 802.1X Authentication in Enterprise Networks
# What is 802.1X?
* 802.1X is a network access control (NAC) protocol that enforces authentication before allowing a device to connect to a LAN.
* It uses EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) over RADIUS for user verification.
* Typically deployed in corporate and campus networks for secure wired and wireless access.
# How Does 802.1X Work?1## Client (Supplicant) # Requests network access.2## Switch (Authenticator) # Forwards request to RADIUS server.3## RADIUS Server # Verifies credentials & grants access.
Mandatory Steps to Enable 802.1X on SW3
# A. Configure an AAA Scheme
* Defines authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) methods.
* Links 802.1X authentication to the RADIUS server.
# B. Configure an Authentication Profile
* Specifies how authentication is handled on the switch.
* Associates 802.1X authentication with an AAA scheme.
# C. Configure an Authentication Domain
* Groups authentication policies for different user types.
* Maps AAA scheme to user login requests.
# D. Configure an 802.1X Access Profile
* Applies 802.1X authentication to specific switch ports (GE0/0/2 & GE0/0/3).
* Ensures that only authenticated users can pass traffic.
Why Are All Four Steps Necessary?
# Each step plays a critical role in enabling 802.1X authentication and linking it to the RADIUS server.
# Without any one of these configurations, the 802.1X authentication process would fail.
Real-World Application:
* Enterprise Wired Security: Ensures that only authenticated devices access corporate networks.
* University Campuses & Public Wi-Fi: Prevents unauthorized access to secure LAN environments.
# Reference: Huawei HCIE-Datacom Guide - 802.1X Authentication & RADIUS Server Configuration