Authenticated Switch Access

Managing Switch Security

 

 

 

 

Authenticated Switch Access

Authenticated Switch Access (ASA) is a way of authenticating users who want to manage the switch. With authenticated access, all switch login attempts using the console or modem port, Telnet, FTP, SNMP, or HTTP require authentication via the local user database or via a third-party server.

This section describes how to configure management interfaces for authenticated access as well as how to specify external servers that the switch can poll for login information. The type of server may be an authentication-only mechanism or an authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) mechanism.

AAAServers—RADIUS or LDAP

AAAservers are able to provide authorization for switch management users as well as authentication (they also may be used for accounting). The AAA servers supported on the switch are Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) or Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) servers. User login information and user privileges may be stored on the servers.

Privileges are used for network administrator accounts. Instead of user privileges an end-user profile may be associated with a user for customer login accounts. User information configured on an external server may include a profile name attribute. The switch will attempt to match the profile name to a profile stored locally on the switch.

The following illustration shows the two different user types attempting to authenticate with a AAA server:

Network Administrator

Customer

login request

LDAP or RADIUS

Server

The switch polls the server

 

and receives login and privi-

OmniSwitch

lege information about the

 

user.

 

login request

LDAP or RADIUS

Server

 

end-user

The switch polls the server

profile

for login information,

OmniSwitch

which may reference a pro-

file name; end-user profiles

 

are stored on the switch.

 

AAA Server (LDAP or RADIUS)

For more information about types of users, see Chapter 7, “Managing Switch User Accounts.”

Authentication-only—ACE/Server

Authentication-only servers are able to authenticate users for switch management access, but authoriza- tion (or what privileges the user has after authenticating) are determined by the switch. Authentication- only servers cannot return user privileges or end-user profiles to the switch. The authentication-only server supported by the switch is ACE/Server, which is a part of RSA Security’s SecurID product suite. RSA Security’s ACE/Agent is embedded in the switch.

The following illustration shows the two different user types attempting to authenticate with an ACE/ Server:

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Alcatel Carrier Internetworking Solutions omniswitch manual Authenticated Switch Access, AAA Servers-RADIUS or Ldap
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omniswitch specifications

Alcatel Carrier Internetworking Solutions offers the OmniSwitch series, renowned for its robust capabilities in delivering high-performance networking solutions tailored for a variety of enterprise and service provider environments. The OmniSwitch series is particularly recognized for its scalability, flexibility, and the depth of its feature set, making it a popular choice for organizations that demand reliable and efficient networking solutions.

One of the standout features of the OmniSwitch series is its advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities, providing organizations with essential support for IP routing and robust Ethernet networking. This versatility ensures that the switch can seamlessly integrate into existing network architectures, facilitating smooth upgrade paths in response to evolving business needs. The OmniSwitch includes support for multiple protocols like RIP, OSPF, and BGP, making it suitable for complex networking topologies.

In terms of performance, OmniSwitch devices are engineered to handle high bandwidth demands. With features such as hardware-based forwarding, they ensure low latency and minimal packet loss, which are critical for applications sensitive to delays such as VoIP and video conferencing. Furthermore, they support Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing users to power devices like IP phones and security cameras directly through the network.

Security is another key characteristic of the OmniSwitch series. It includes advanced security features such as robust access control lists (ACLs), port security, and built-in support for IEEE 802.1X authentication. These features collectively enhance the security posture of the network, protecting sensitive data and ensuring that only authorized devices can access the network resources.

The OmniSwitch is also designed with redundancy and reliability in mind. Features like Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) and Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) ensure that network uptime is maximized and that failover is swift in the event of a hardware failure. This makes it a viable option for organizations that cannot afford downtime.

In addition to these features, Alcatel's OmniSwitch series comes equipped with a user-friendly management interface. This interface simplifies the setup, configuration, and monitoring of the network, making it accessible even to those with limited networking expertise. Through intuitive dashboards and support for SNMP, administrators can manage their networks effectively.

In conclusion, Alcatel Carrier Internetworking Solutions' OmniSwitch series offers a comprehensive suite of features tailored to meet the needs of modern networks. With its blend of performance, scalability, security, and ease of management, the OmniSwitch stands out as a preferred choice for businesses seeking to enhance their networking infrastructure.
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