Configuring 802.1x and Troubleshooting Commands

802.1X is a widely adopted IEEE standard that provides port-based network access control and authentication. It plays a crucial role in enhancing network security by controlling and monitoring access to network resources. Professionals with Network security certifications understand the importance of 802.1x.

In this article, we will cover the key aspects of configuring 802.1X and troubleshooting commands. By understanding and implementing these configurations, you will gain essential skills in Cisco security and it will help you maintain a robust and reliable network infrastructure.

What is 802.1x?

The IEEE 802.1X standard defines a client-server-based access control and authentication protocol that restricts unauthorized devices from connecting to a LAN through publicly accessible ports. The authentication server authenticates each client connected to a switch port before making available any services offered by the switch or the LAN.

Until the client is authenticated, 802.1X access control allows only Extensible Authentication Protocol over LAN (EAPOL) traffic through the port to which the client is connected. After authentication is successful, normal traffic can pass through the port.

This enables establishing best practices for commonly performed procedures and aids in introducing consistency in processes and hence an enhancement in service levels.

In locations where we do not control the cabling, we need to use 802.1x to take care of the security. It is decided to implement 802.1x on the local switch since Statoil is not responsible for the cabling/infrastructure. All Laptops and printers connected to the switch have to be authorized to the Radius/AD with their certificate to get an open/authorized port on the switch. When they are authorized a normal logon procedure is required to access applications.

Try CCNA Virtual Lab to gain practical experience on 802.1X.

Troubleshooting 802.X AAA Issues

Use the following CLI commands to troubleshoot AAA issues:

• show aaa authentication

• show radius status

• show radius-server

• Show aaa server

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Debug Error in 802.1X

Use the following debug commands to determine the root cause of an issue:

• debug radius aaa-request

• debug radius aaa-request-low-level

• debug dot1x errors/events

• debug radius brief/retransmit

802.1x Configuration with Switch Port

When configuring a switch port with 802.1x. Should have the below standard configuration included:-

• authentication event server dead action authorize

• authentication event server alive action reinitialize

• authentication port-control auto

• authentication timer reauthenticate 100

• authentication violation protect

• dot1x pae authenticator

802.1x Configuration with Switch

When configuring a switch with 802.1x. Configuration to verify:

• aaa authentication dot1x default group radius

• ip radius source-interface Vlan Management

• dot1x system-auth-control

• dot1x critical eapol

• radius-server source-ports extended

• radius-server host 10.217.105.245 auth-port 1812 acct-port 1813

• radius-server host 10.217.105.246 auth-port 1812 acct-port 1813

• radius-server key 7 1046080B01161C0C09163C22202C32

• radius-server deadtime 1

• radius-server dead-criteria time 10 tries 2

Conclusion

Configuring and troubleshooting the 802.1x is an essential skill for any network security professional. In this article, we have briefly discussed 802.1x, how to troubleshoot common issues in 802.1x, and how to debug 802.1x to find the cause of possible errors.

802.1X is a network access control protocol that enhances security by requiring authentication before devices can connect to a network. It is commonly used in both wired and wireless networks to ensure that only authorized users gain access. You can learn more about 802.1x in our live CCNA Training class.