An IP address is assigned for the dial-up client.

Accounting phase: Collects information on resource usage for the purpose of trend analysis, auditing, session time billing, or cost allocation.

How 802.1x Authentication Works

A simplified description of 802.1x authentication is:

A client sends a "request to access" message to an access point. The access point requests the identity of the client.

The client replies with its identity packet which is passed along to the authentication server.

The authentication server sends an "accept" packet to the access point.

The access point places the client port in the authorized state and data traffic is allowed to proceed.

802.1x Features

802.1x supplicant protocol support

Support for the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) - RFC 2284

Supported Authentication Methods:

EAP TLS Authentication Protocol - RFC 2716 and RFC 2246

EAP Tunneled TLS (TTLS)

PEAP

Supports Microsoft Windows XP and Windows 2000

WPA or WPA2

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2) is a security enhancement that strongly increases the level of data protection and access control to a wireless network. WPA enforces 802.1x authentication and key-exchange and only works with dynamic encryption keys. To strengthen data encryption, WPA utilizes Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP). TKIP provides important data encryption enhancements that include a per-packet key mixing function, a message integrity check (MIC) called Michael an extended initialization vector (IV) with sequencing rules, and a rekeying mechanism. With these improvement enhancements, TKIP protects against WEP's known weaknesses.

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Intel 3945ABG specifications How 802.1x Authentication Works

3945ABG specifications

The Intel 3945ABG is a wireless networking adapter that played a significant role in advancing wireless connectivity in laptops and portable devices. Introduced in the mid-2000s, this adapter is notable for its dual-band capabilities and compliance with the IEEE 802.11 a/b/g standards. It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, enabling users to connect to a variety of wireless networks while offering improved performance and flexibility.

One of the standout features of the Intel 3945ABG is its support for MIMO technology, which stands for Multiple Input Multiple Output. This innovative technology enhances data transmission rates and increases the range of wireless connections by utilizing multiple antennas for sending and receiving data. MIMO allows the adapter to operate more efficiently in environments with obstacles, such as walls or furniture, making it an ideal choice for users who need reliable connectivity in varied settings.

The Intel 3945ABG adapter also includes Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 security protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the wireless network remains secure. This is especially important in a time when wireless networks became progressively more vulnerable to unauthorized access and data breaches. The adapter's compatibility with these security standards aids users in establishing secure communications, whether for casual web browsing or sensitive tasks.

In terms of performance, the Intel 3945ABG offers maximum theoretical speeds of up to 54 Mbps in the 802.11a and 802.11g modes, while maintaining lower speeds in the 802.11b mode (up to 11 Mbps). In practical use, this means that users can achieve high data transfer rates in optimal conditions, making it suitable for video streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads.

The Intel 3945ABG also integrates seamlessly with Intel's Centrino mobile technology, which enhances power efficiency and optimizes the overall performance of a laptop. This synergy not only extends battery life but also provides a smooth user experience, as it allows the adapter to effectively manage network resources and maintain a stable connection.

In summary, the Intel 3945ABG wireless adapter is characterized by its dual-band support, MIMO technology, robust security features, and integration with Intel's Centrino technology. While it may now be considered outdated by modern standards, it served as an important stepping stone in the evolution of wireless networking technology and continues to be remembered for its contributions to mobile connectivity.