Radius Server Configuration
July 17, 2024 - Reading time: 2 minutes
The previous tutorials covered the basics of AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting) in Cisco devices. It included an overview of how to configure local authentication, where user credentials are stored directly on each device. We also discussed the principles of using an external authentication server to centralize user credentials and authentication processes, laying the groundwork for a RADIUS server setup with PocketCLI. Understanding these concepts is crucial as we move forward to implementing RADIUS for centralized authentication.
To configure Router0, you will need to access its configuration interface. Follow these steps:
- Access the command-line interface (CLI) of Router0.
- Enter configuration mode by typing "configure terminal."
- Specify the RADIUS server and its parameters for authentication:
aaa new-model
aaa authentication login default group radius
radius-server host <Host1_IP_Address> key radiuskey1 - Optionally, you can configure the VTY lines for telnet to use RADIUS authentication:
line vty 0 4 login authentication default
Note: Optional because this is done by default as soon as you configure aaa-new model.
- Save the configuration and exit:
write memory
exit
Router0 is now configured to use the RADIUS server on Host1 for authentication. When users attempt to log in to Router0 via telnet from Host2 or Host3, their credentials will be sent to the RADIUS server for verification.
Keep in mind that the RADIUS server setup and Router0 configuration are just the beginning of implementing centralized user authentication. You can expand this setup in your production environment to include other network devices and services, making your network more secure and manageable.
Utilizing a RADIUS server for centralized authentication in a Cisco environment offers numerous benefits, such as streamlined administration and consistent user verification across the network. By following this lab exercise and expanding its implementation, you can enhance the security and efficiency of your network infrastructure.
Please download the lab from this link. (minimum requirement: version 1.93)
Don't fprget to setup the radius server.