D-Link DGS-1510 User Manual - Page 291

DGS-1510 Series Gigabit Ethernet SmartPro Switch Web UI Reference Guide • The 802.1X settings must be implemented by port (Security > 802.1X > 802.1X Port Settings) • A RADIUS server must be configured on the Switch. (Security > RADIUS > RADIUS Server Settings) Client The Client is simply the end station that wishes to gain access to the LAN or switch services. All end stations must be running software that is compliant with the 802.1X protocol. For users running windows XP and windows Vista, that software is included within the operating system. All other users are required to attain 802.1X client software from an outside source. The Client will request access to the LAN and or Switch through EAPOL packets and, in turn will respond to requests from the Switch. Figure 9-8 The Client Authentication Process Utilizing the three roles stated above, the 802.1X protocol provides a stable and secure way of authorizing and authenticating users attempting to access the network. Only EAPOL traffic is allowed to pass through the specified port before a successful authentication is made. This port is "locked" until the point when a Client with the correct username and password (and MAC address if 802.1X is enabled by MAC address) is granted access and therefore successfully "unlocks" the port. Once the port is unlocked, normal traffic is allowed to pass through the port. The following figure displays a detailed explanation of how the authentication process is completed between the three roles stated above. Figure 9-9 The 802.1X Authentication Process 280