Configuring Port Security; Overview; Port Security Features; Port Security Modes - HP FlexNetwork 10500 Series Security Configuration Manual

Configuring port security

Overview

Port security combines and extends 802.1X and MAC authentication to provide MAC-based network
access control. This feature applies to networks that require different authentication methods for
different users on a port.
Port security provides the following functions:
•
Prevents unauthorized access to a network by checking the source MAC address of inbound
traffic.
•
Prevents access to unauthorized devices or hosts by checking the destination MAC address of
outbound traffic.
•
Controls MAC address learning and authentication on a port to make sure the port learns only
source trusted MAC addresses.
A frame is illegal if its source MAC address cannot be learned in a port security mode or it is from a
client that has failed 802.1X or MAC authentication. The port security feature automatically takes a
predefined action on illegal frames. This automatic mechanism enhances network security and
reduces human intervention.
NOTE:
As a best practice, use the 802.1X authentication or MAC authentication feature rather than port
security for scenarios that require only 802.1X authentication or MAC authentication. For more
information about 802.1X and MAC authentication, see "Configuring 802.1X" and
authentication."

Port security features

NTK
The need to know (NTK) feature prevents traffic interception by checking the destination MAC
address in the outbound frames. The feature ensures that frames are sent only to the following
hosts:
•
Hosts that have passed authentication.
•
Hosts whose MAC addresses have been learned or configured on the access device.
Intrusion protection
The intrusion protection feature checks the source MAC address in inbound frames for illegal frames,
and takes a predefined action on each detected illegal frame. The action can be disabling the port
temporarily, disabling the port permanently, or blocking frames from the illegal MAC address for 3
minutes (not user configurable).

Port security modes

Port security supports the following categories of security modes:
•
MAC learning control—Includes two modes: autoLearn and secure. MAC address learning is
permitted on a port in autoLearn mode and disabled in secure mode.
•
Authentication—Security modes in this category implement MAC authentication, 802.1X
authentication, or a combination of these two authentication methods.
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"Configuring MAC