IEEE 802.1X is a standard for port-based network access control, typically used to provide secure authentication on both wired (Ethernet) and wireless networks. Here's a breakdown of the key components and implementation steps for 802.1X over Ethernet:
- Supplicant (Client)
- The device (e.g., a computer or network printer) that requests access to the network.
- It must support 802.1X and be configured with credentials (such as a username/password or certificate) to authenticate to the network.
- Authenticator (Switch or Access Point)
- The network device that acts as an intermediary between the supplicant and the authentication server.
- In the case of Ethernet, this is typically an Ethernet switch. The switch only allows network access if the supplicant is successfully authenticated.