RADIUS server
1. Client attempts to access a switch port.
2. Switch sends client an identity request.
3. Client sends back identity information.
4. Switch forwards this to authentication server.
5. Authentication server challenges client.
6. Client responds with proper credentials.
7. Authentication server approves access.
8. Switch grants client access to this port.
802.1x client

CONFIGURING THE SWITCH

This switch uses the Extensible Authentication

Protocol over LANs (EAPOL) to exchange authentication

protocol messages with the client, and a

remote RADIUS authentication server to verify user identity and access rights. When a client (i.e., Supplicant) connects to a switch port, the switch (i.e., Authenticator) responds with an EAPOL identity request. The client provides its identity (such as a user name) in an EAPOL response to the switch, which it forwards to the RADIUS server. The RADIUS server verifies the client identity and sends an access challenge back to the client. The EAP packet from the RADIUS server contains not only the challenge, but the authentication method to be used. The client can reject the authentication method and request another, depending on the configuration of the client software and the RADIUS server. The authentication method must be MD5. The client responds to the appropriate method with its credentials, such as a password or certificate. The RADIUS server verifies the client credentials and responds with an accept or reject packet. If authentication is successful, the switch allows the client to access the network. Otherwise, network access is denied and the port remains blocked.

The operation of 802.1X on the switch requires the following:

•The switch must have an IP address assigned.

•RADIUS authentication must be enabled on the switch and the IP address of the RADIUS server specified.

•802.1X must be enabled globally for the switch.

•Each switch port that will be used must be set to dot1X “Auto” mode.

•Each client that needs to be authenticated must have dot1X client software installed and properly configured.

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SMC Networks SMC6752AL2 manual Configuring the Switch
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SMC6752AL2 specifications

The SMC Networks SMC6752AL2 is a robust and versatile gigabit Ethernet switch designed to cater to the demands of medium to large enterprise networks. This switch delivers an impressive combination of performance, flexibility, and manageability, making it an ideal solution for businesses seeking to enhance their network infrastructure.

One of the standout features of the SMC6752AL2 is its 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed network connections to a variety of devices such as servers, workstations, and other networked equipment. Additionally, the switch includes 4 SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) slots that provide options for connecting to other networking devices via fiber optics, enhancing the versatility of the network configuration.

The SMC6752AL2 supports advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities, which are crucial for efficient data handling and traffic management. With features such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, the switch can segment network traffic to improve performance and security while effectively managing broadcast domains. It supports 802.1Q VLAN tagging, allowing for better network segmentation and isolation of different types of traffic.

Moreover, the switch is equipped with Quality of Service (QoS) features to prioritize critical data transmissions. This is essential for applications requiring real-time data flow, such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and video conferencing. The SMC6752AL2's QoS capabilities enable users to classify and prioritize traffic, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for bandwidth-intensive applications.

The SMC6752AL2 also includes features such as port mirroring and link aggregation, enhancing the monitoring and management capabilities of the network. Port mirroring allows administrators to duplicate traffic from one port to another for analysis and troubleshooting, while link aggregation enables combining multiple connections for increased bandwidth and redundancy.

In terms of security, the switch supports802.1X port-based authentication, providing a layer of network access control that ensures only authorized users can connect. This feature, combined with the ability to create access control lists (ACLs), helps to safeguard the network against unauthorized access and other potential threats.

Overall, the SMC Networks SMC6752AL2 is a feature-rich Ethernet switch that offers reliable performance and advanced capabilities for managing enterprise networks. Its combination of port density, layer 2 switching features, QoS functionalities, and enhanced security makes it an excellent choice for organizations looking to expand or upgrade their networking solutions. With the SMC6752AL2, businesses can maintain high-performance connectivity and effective network management tailored to their specific operational needs.
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