A RADIUS server utilizes a central database to authenticate remote users. RADIUS functions as a client-server protocol, authenticating each user with a unique encryption key when access is granted. How a RADIUS server works depends upon the exact nature of the RADIUS ecosystem. Below is an overview of how RADIUS servers work.
- First, the user initiates authentication to the network access server (NAS).
- The network access server then requests either a username and password or a challenge (CHAP).
- The user replies.
- Upon receiving the user’s reply, the RADIUS client sends the username and the uniquely encrypted password to the RADIUS server.
- The RADIUS server accepts or rejects the user.
RADIUS servers are well known for their AAA capabilities — Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting. The main advantage of the centralized AAA capabilities of a RADIUS server are heightened security and better efficiency. RADIUS servers provide each business with the ability to preserve the privacy and security of both the system and each individual user.
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What is AAA in networking?
The acronym AAA stands for “Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting”. It defines an architecture which authenticates and grants authorization to users and, and afterwards accounts for their activity. When AAA is not used, the architecture is described as “open”, where anyone can gain access and do anything, without any tracking.
Why use a RADIUS server?
The benefits of a RADIUS server on the efficiency of an entire network are wide-reaching. Although some businesses are unaware of the advantages of a RADIUS server as opposed to a pre-shared key, others have long benefited from the increased speed of RADIUS servers, as well as their ability to heighten security, to enhance reporting and tracking capabilities, and to personalize restrictions based on the user.