Chapter 25 Configuring Ieee 802.1X Port-Based Authentication; Understanding 802.1X Port-Based Authentication - Cisco 6500 Series Software Configuration Manual

Configuring IEEE 802.1X Port-Based Authentication
This chapter describes how to configure IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication to prevent unauthorized
devices (clients) from gaining access to the network. Release 12.1(13)E and later releases support
802.1X port-based authentication.
Note For complete syntax and usage information for the commands used in this chapter, refer to the
Catalyst 6500 Series Switch Cisco IOS Command Reference publication.
This chapter consists of these sections:
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Understanding 802.1X Port-Based Authentication

The IEEE 802.1X standard defines a client-server-based access control and authentication protocol that
restricts unauthorized clients from connecting to a LAN through publicly accessible ports. The
authentication server authenticates each client connected to a switch port and assigns the port to a VLAN
before making available any services offered by the switch or the LAN.
Until the client is authenticated, 802.1X access control allows only Extensible Authentication Protocol
over LAN (EAPOL) traffic through the port to which the client is connected. After authentication is
successful, normal traffic can pass through the port.
These sections describe IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication:
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Understanding 802.1X Port-Based Authentication, page 25-1
Default 802.1X Port-Based Authentication Configuration, page 25-5
802.1X Port-Based Authentication Guidelines and Restrictions, page 25-6
Configuring 802.1X Port-Based Authentication, page 25-7
Displaying 802.1X Status, page 25-15
Device Roles, page 25-2
Authentication Initiation and Message Exchange, page 25-3
Ports in Authorized and Unauthorized States, page 25-4
Supported Topologies, page 25-4
Catalyst 6500 Series Switch Cisco IOS Software Configuration Guide—Release 12.1 E
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