Quick Reference Guide

PowerConnect B-Series TI24X Configuration Guide 927

53-1002269-02

How 802.1X port security works

EAPOL messages are passed between the Port Access Entity (PAE) on the Supplicant and the

Authenticator. Figure 118 shows the relationship between the Authenticator PAE and the

Supplicant PAE.

FIGURE 118 Authenticator PAE and supplicant PAE

Authenticator PAE – The Authenticator PAE communicates with the Supplicant PAE, receiving

identifying information from the Supplicant. Acting as a RADIUS client, the Authenticator PAE

passes the Supplicant information to the Authentication Server, which decides whether the

Supplicant can gain access to the port. If the Supplicant passes authentication, the Authenticator

PAE grants it access to the port.

Supplicant PAE – The Supplicant PAE supplies information about the Client to the Authenticator

PAE and responds to requests from the Authenticator PAE. The Supplicant PAE can also initiate the

authentication procedure with the Authenticator PAE, as well as send log off messages.

Authentication

Server

RADIUS

Messages

Authenticator

PA E

Switch

(Authenticator)

Supplicant

PA E

802.1X-Enabled

Supplicant

EAPOL

Messages