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RADIUS

RADIUS is a networking protocol used for remote user authentication and accounting.

Description

RADIUS, which stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, is a client-server protocol that provides centralized Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) management for users who connect and use a network service. In the context of Non-Human Identities (NHIs), RADIUS can also be utilized to manage and authenticate devices, sensors, and other non-human entities that require network access. The RADIUS server manages the authentication requests from clients, which can be network access servers, routers, or switches, ensuring that only authorized devices can access the network. It supports various methods of authentication, including passwords and digital certificates, and provides accounting features to track the usage and performance of these devices. This is particularly important in environments where non-human entities operate autonomously, such as Internet of Things (IoT) networks, where ensuring security and tracking usage is crucial.

Examples

  • An IoT device connecting to a corporate network using RADIUS for secure authentication.
  • A wireless access point using RADIUS to authenticate devices trying to access the Wi-Fi network.

Additional Information

  • RADIUS is commonly used in ISP and enterprise networks for managing user access.
  • It can integrate with other authentication systems like LDAP or Active Directory.

References