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CHAPTER 5: SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
RADIUS
Remote Authentication Dial-in User Service (RADIUS) is an authentication prot ocol
that uses software running on a central server to control access to RADIUS-aware
devices on the network. An authentication server contains a database of user
credentials for each user that requires access to the network.
A primary RADIUS server must be specified for the access point to implement IEEE
802.1X network access control and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) wireless
security. A secondary RADIUS server may also be specified as a backup should the
primary server fail or become inacces sible.
In addition, the configured RADIUS server can also act as a RADIUS Accounting
server and receive user-session accounting information from the access point.
RADIUS Accounting can be used to provide v aluable information on user activity
in the network.
NOTE: This guide assumes that you have already configured RADIUS server(s) to
support the access point. Configuration of RAD IUS server software is beyond the
scope of this guide, refer to the documentation provided with the RADIUS server
software.