Authentication Server; Authenticator - D-Link DGS-3200-16 - Switch - Stackable User Manual

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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.

Authenticator

The Authenticator (the Switch) is an intermediary between the Authentication Server and the Client. The Authenticator serves two
purposes when utilizing the 802.1X function. 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.
The 802.1X State must be Enabled. (Security / 802.1X /802.1X Settings)
1.
The 802.1X settings must be implemented by port (Security / 802.1X / 802.1X Settings)
2.
A RADIUS server must be configured on the Switch. (Security / 802.1X / Authentic RADIUS Server)
3.
®
DGS-3200 Series Layer 2 Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch
Figure 5 - 17. The Authentication Server
Figure 5 - 18. The Authenticator
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