4 802.1X Network Access Control

Guest VLAN

The Guest VLAN feature allows a switch to provide a distinguished service to unauthenticated users. This feature provides a mechanism to allow visitors and contractors to have network access to reach external network with no ability to surf internal LAN.

When a client that does not support 802.1X is connected to an unauthorized port that is 802.1X-enabled, the client does not respond to the 802.1X requests from the switch. Therefore, the port remains in the unauthorized state, and the client is not granted access to the network. If a guest VLAN is configured for that port, then the port is placed in the configured guest VLAN and the port is moved to the authorized state, allowing access to the client.

Client devices that are 802.1X-supplicant-enabled authenticate with the switch when they are plugged into the 802.1X-enabled switch port. The switch verifies the credentials of the client by communicating with an authentication server. If the credentials are verified, the authentication server informs the switch to 'unblock' the switch port and allows the client unrestricted access to the network; i.e., the client is a member of an internal VLAN.

Guest VLAN Supplicant mode is a global configuration for all the ports on the switch. When a port is configured for Guest VLAN in this mode, if a client fails authentication on the port, the client is assigned to the guest VLAN configured on that port. The port is assigned a Guest VLAN ID and is moved to the authorized status. Disabling the supplicant mode does not clear the ports that are already authorized and assigned Guest VLAN IDs.

Configuring the Guest VLAN by Using the CLI

To enable the Guest VLAN Supplicant Mode, use the dot1x guest-vlan supplicant command in Global Config mode.

To configure a VLAN as guest VLAN on a per port basis, enter the Interface Config mode for the port and use the dot1x guest-vlan<vlan-id>command.

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D-Link DWS-3000 manual Configuring the Guest Vlan by Using the CLI

DWS-3000 specifications

The D-Link DWS-3000 is an advanced cloud-ready wireless switch designed to meet the increasing demands of modern networks. As organizations transition to more mobile and connected environments, the need for robust and scalable networking solutions becomes paramount. The DWS-3000 addresses this need with its range of features, technologies, and specifications tailored for seamless network management.

One of the standout features of the DWS-3000 is its support for centralized management, allowing IT administrators to oversee multiple access points from a single interface. This simplifies the process of provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting network devices, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime. The switch's intuitive web interface and support for D-View, D-Link's network management software, enable effective control over network operations.

The DWS-3000 is equipped with advanced security protocols to safeguard sensitive data within the network. It supports WPA3 encryption, which enhances security compared to its predecessor, WPA2. Additionally, features like MAC address filtering, 802.1X authentication, and rogue AP detection provide comprehensive protection against unauthorized access.

In terms of performance, the DWS-3000 leverages high-capacity hardware to support PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology, enabling power delivery to compatible devices without the need for additional cabling. This feature is particularly beneficial for deployment scenarios where cabling infrastructure is limited.

Moreover, the DWS-3000 is built with scalability in mind. It can support a vast number of access points, making it suitable for deployments ranging from small businesses to large enterprises. This scalability, combined with features like load balancing and Band Steering, ensures efficient use of available bandwidth, enhancing user experience.

The switch also offers seamless integration with D-Link’s suite of access points, allowing for simplified deployments in various environments, whether indoor or outdoor. The capabilities of the DWS-3000 extend into a comprehensive analytics engine, which provides insights into network performance and user behavior, aiding in informed decision-making.

With its blend of advanced features, robust security measures, and scalability, the D-Link DWS-3000 is positioned as a powerful solution for organizations looking to elevate their network infrastructure. It empowers businesses to provide reliable, high-performance wireless connectivity while maintaining security and ease of management in today’s dynamic environment.