Module 2: Network Security Protocols and StandardsNetwork Security Samer Aoudi
Learning Outcomes2.1. An Overview of Network Security Protocols and Standards
As computing technology has advanced, so has the importance of network security. Today, virtually all organizations rely on digital networks to store and transmit sensitive data, such as financial records, personal information, and trade secrets. With the growing threat of cyber attacks, it is more important than ever to ensure that these networks are secured against unauthorized access or theft. Network security protocols and standards provide a set of guidelines and best practices for securing networks and communications, ensuring that sensitive data is kept safe from cyber threats such as malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.
In this module, we will explore some of the most common network security protocols and standards used in modern computing. We will examine the purpose, functionality, implementation, and use cases of various protocols such as Transport Layer Security (TLS), Secure Shell (SSH), and Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), as well as standards such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1x, Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS), and Network Access Control (NAC). We will also discuss the advantages and limitations of each protocol and standard, and explore how they can be used to secure networks and communications.
2.1.1 Introduction
The specific network security protocols we use depend on the type of data we are trying to protect, as well as the type of network connection. Each protocol defines the techniques and procedures required to protect the network from unauthorized access or other cyber attacks. Before we get into the details of network security protocols and standards, let us start with some fundamental concepts:
Important Concepts
According to NASA, "a protocol defines a set of rules used by two or more parties to interact between themselves. A standard is a formalized protocol accepted by most of the parties that implement it." [1]
A network protocol is an established set of rules that determine how data is transmitted between different devices in a network. Examples of network protocols inclulde Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), and so on.
Network security protocols are software-based security measures that help to protect data as it is transmitted over a network. These protocols are designed to encrypt data, authenticate users, and protect against unauthorized access to the network. Some common examples of network security protocols include Transport Layer Security (TLS), Secure Shell (SSH), and Internet Protocol Security (IPsec).
Network security standards are a set of guidelines and best practices that provide a framework for implementing network security protocols. These standards help to ensure that network security protocols are implemented correctly and consistently across an organization, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities and ensuring that the network is as secure as possible. Some common examples of network security standards include Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1x, Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS), and Network Access Control (NAC).
Network security protocols and standards are a set of guidelines and best practices used to protect digital networks and the data transmitted across them from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. These protocols and standards help to ensure that data is kept confidential, its integrity is maintained, and it is available only to authorized parties.
The primary technique to protect data is encryption. Encryption is the process of converting data into a coded language that can only be deciphered with a secret key or password. When data is encrypted, it is transformed into an unreadable format that can only be understood by someone who has the key to unlock it. This helps to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as personal or financial data, and can help to ensure that data is kept secure and confidential.
Encryption can be used to protect data both in transit, such as when it is being transmitted over a network, and at rest, such as when it is stored on a device or server. There are many different encryption algorithms and protocols available, each with different levels of security and complexity. It is important to choose the right encryption method based on the sensitivity of the data being protected and the potential risks of unauthorized access.
As an example, the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a popular method for transferring files. However, FTP communication, including transfered files, is in cleartext, and therefore can be easily compromised. A secure alternative to FTP, is Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) which offers a more secure communication by encrypting data being transfered.
Protocols and the OSI Model
As discussed in a prvious module, the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) reference model defines a layered architecture that separates the functions of a network into seven different layers, each of which is responsible for a specific set of tasks. Network security protocols are often associated with a certain layer. For instance, IPsec is an OSI Layer 3 (Network) protocol, while TLS is a Layer 5 (Session) protocol. HTTPS, Kerberos, and SNMP are considered Layer 7 (Application) protocols.
Goals of Network Security Protocols and Standards
The goals of network security protocols and standards are to protect digital networks and the data transmitted across them from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. Specifically, network security protocols and standards aim to achieve the following goals:
Network security protocols and standards provide meachanisms for accessing, using, and/or managing computer networks along with measures to prevent, detect, and correct network compromises.
References
2.2. Network Security Protocols
Network security protocols are a key component of modern computing, helping to protect digital networks and the data transmitted across them from cyber threats. These protocols are designed to encrypt data, authenticate users, and protect against unauthorized access to the network.
In this section, we will discuss some of the most common network security protocols in use today, including Transport Layer Security (TLS), Secure Shell (SSH), Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), Kerberos, and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). We will explore how these protocols work, their strengths and weaknesses, and best practices for implementing them in a network environment.
By understanding the fundamentals of network security protocols, you will be better equipped to protect your organization's digital assets against cyber threats and maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data.
Figure 2.1: Network Security Protocols
2.2.1. Transport Layer Security (TLS)
Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a widely used network security cryptographic protocol that is designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over digital networks. Originally developed as a successor to Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), TLS is now the standard protocol for securing online transactions, email, and other types of digital communication.
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of TLS is to provide a secure communication channel between two endpoints on a digital network. This is achieved through a combination of encryption, authentication, and integrity checking mechanisms. When TLS is used to secure a connection, data is first encrypted using a symmetric encryption algorithm, and then transmitted over the network. The receiving endpoint then decrypts the data using a shared secret key, which is established during the TLS handshake process [2].
The TLS (Transport Layer Security) handshake is the process by which two parties, such as a web server and a client (e.g., a web browser), establish a secure communication channel. The TLS handshake involves the following steps:
In addition to encryption, TLS also provides authentication mechanisms to ensure that both endpoints are who they claim to be. This is done using digital certificates, which are issued by trusted third-party organizations known as Certificate Authorities (CAs). During the TLS handshake process, the endpoints exchange digital certificates to verify each other's identity and establish a secure connection.
Implementation and Use Cases
TLS is implemented in a wide range of applications and systems, including web browsers, email clients, and mobile devices. It is used to secure a variety of digital communication channels, including web traffic (HTTPS), email (SMTPS, IMAPS), and instant messaging (XMPP).
TLS is particularly important for e-commerce and online banking, where it is used to protect sensitive financial information, such as credit card numbers and account credentials. It is also used to secure sensitive communications between government agencies and other organizations that deal with classified information. That's why all major web browsers support TLS.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of TLS is that it provides strong encryption and authentication mechanisms that are widely supported across a range of applications and systems. TLS is also relatively easy to implement and configure, making it accessible to organizations of all sizes.
However, there are some limitations to TLS that should be taken into account. One potential limitation is that TLS relies on trusted CAs to issue digital certificates. If a CA is compromised or issues a fraudulent certificate, it can undermine the security of the entire TLS ecosystem.
Additionally, TLS may be vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as man-in-the-middle attacks and downgrade attacks. To mitigate these risks, it is important to keep TLS implementations up-to-date and to follow best practices for certificate management and configuration.
2.2.2. Secure Shell (SSH)
Secure Shell (SSH) is another cryptographic network security protocol that provides secure remote access to digital devices over a network. Originally designed to replace the insecure Telnet protocol, SSH is now widely used for secure remote access, file transfers, and tunneling.
SSH applications are based on a client–server architecture, and include three principal hierarchical components: the transport layer provides server authentication, confidentiality, and integrity; the user authentication protocol validates the user to the server; and the connection protocol multiplexes the encrypted tunnel into multiple logical communication channels [3].
Purpose and Functionality
SSH can be used to tunnel traffic, forward TCP ports, and establish X11 connections in addition to being commonly used to log into remote machines and execute commands on those machines. SSH can be applied in a number of different ways. In the simplest case, a network connection is encrypted at both ends using automatically produced public-private key pairs, and the user is then authenticated using a password.
Implementation and Use Cases
SSH is implemented in a wide range of applications and systems, including Linux, Unix, and macOS operating systems, as well as network devices such as routers and switches. It is used to secure remote access to these devices, as well as for secure file transfers and tunneling.
One of the most common use cases for SSH is for remote administration of servers and network devices. This allows system administrators to securely manage their infrastructure from a remote location, without having to physically be in the same location as the devices they are managing.
SSH is also commonly used for secure file transfers, using a protocol known as Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), setting up automatic (passwordless) login to a remote server, using OpenSSH, forwarding a port, and tunneling.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of SSH is that it provides strong encryption and authentication mechanisms that are widely supported across a range of applications and systems. SSH is also relatively easy to implement and configure, making it accessible to organizations of all sizes.
One potential limitation of SSH is that they keys can be compromised if they are not properly secured. Additionally, SSH may be vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as brute force attacks and man-in-the-middle attacks. To mitigate these risks, it is important to follow best practices for SSH key management and configuration, and to keep SSH implementations up-to-date.
2.2.3. Internet Protocol Security (IPsec)
Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) is a network security protocol suite that is used to provide secure communication over IP networks, such as the internet. IPsec is widely used for Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections and site-to-site communication between networks [4].
Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that provides secure and private access to a network or the internet. VPNs are commonly used by remote workers to access company networks, as well as by individuals who want to browse the internet privately and securely.
The purpose of a VPN is to provide secure and private communication between two or more devices over a public network such as the internet. VPNs use encryption and tunneling protocols to create a secure "tunnel" between the devices, which prevents eavesdropping, tampering, and other types of attacks.
When a device connects to a VPN, all of its internet traffic is encrypted and routed through the VPN server, which acts as a gateway to the internet. This ensures that the device's IP address is hidden from the internet and that all of its internet traffic is secure and private.
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of IPsec is to provide secure communication over IP networks by encrypting data packets and providing authentication and integrity checks. IPsec can be used to protect data at the network layer, which means that it can provide security for all types of traffic that use IP, including TCP, UDP, and ICMP.
IPsec provides two modes of operation: Transport mode and Tunnel mode. In Transport mode, only the payload of the IP packet is encrypted, while the header remains unencrypted. In Tunnel mode, both the header and payload of the IP packet are encrypted, which provides a higher level of security.
IPsec uses a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms to protect data, as well as digital certificates for authentication. When IPsec is used to establish a connection, the endpoints exchange digital certificates to verify each other's identity and establish a secure connection.
Implementation and Use Cases
IPsec is implemented in many applications and systems including VPNs, routers, firewalls, and other network security devices. It is commonly used for remote access VPNs, which allow users to securely access a corporate network from a remote location.
IPsec is also commonly used for site-to-site VPNs, which allow two or more networks to securely communicate with each other over the internet. This is often used by organizations with multiple locations, to provide secure communication between their different sites.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of IPsec is that it provides strong encryption and authentication mechanisms that are widely supported across a range of applications and systems. IPsec is also highly configurable, which allows organizations to customize their security settings to meet their specific needs.
One limitation of IPsec is that it can be complex to configure and manage, which may require specialized expertise. Additionally, IPsec may be vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as Denial of Service (DoS) attacks and IP address spoofing. To mitigate these risks, it is important to follow best practices for IPsec configuration and management, and to keep IPsec implementations up-to-date with the latest security patches.
2.2.4. Kerberos
Kerberos is a network authentication protocol that is used to provide secure authentication for client/server applications [5]. It was originally developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the 1980s and has since become a widely-used standard for network authentication.
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of Kerberos is to provide a secure method for authenticating users and services on a network. Kerberos uses a trusted third-party authentication server to verify the identities of clients and services, and to generate encrypted authentication credentials, known as tickets.
When a client wants to access a protected resource on the network, it requests a ticket from the Kerberos authentication server. The authentication server verifies the client's identity and generates a ticket that includes an encrypted session key. The client then presents this ticket to the service that it wants to access, along with the encrypted session key. The service decrypts the session key using its own private key and uses it to establish a secure communication channel with the client.
Implementation and Use Cases
Kerberos is implemented in a variety of systems and applications, including operating systems, web browsers, and enterprise applications. It is commonly used in enterprise environments to provide centralized authentication and access control for a wide range of resources.
One common use case for Kerberos is in Active Directory environments, where it is used to authenticate users and services across a network of Windows-based systems. Kerberos is also used in Unix-based systems, where it is often used in conjunction with the Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) framework to provide secure authentication for a variety of applications.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of Kerberos is that it provides strong authentication mechanisms that are resistant to many types of attacks, including replay attacks, eavesdropping, and man-in-the-middle attacks. Kerberos is also highly scalable, which makes it well-suited for use in large enterprise environments.
Kerberos requires a centralized authentication server, which can create a single point of failure in the network. Additionally, Kerberos can be complex to configure and manage, which may require specialized expertise.
2.2.5. Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a protocol used to manage and monitor network devices such as routers, switches, servers, and printers. SNMP is widely used in enterprise networks to monitor the health and performance of network devices, and to detect and diagnose network problems.
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of SNMP is to provide a standard way for network administrators to monitor and manage network devices. SNMP enables network administrators to collect information such as device status, network traffic, and error rates from network devices, and to receive alerts when network problems occur.
SNMP works by using a standard set of commands and messages that are sent between the network management system (NMS) and the network devices. The messages are typically sent using UDP/IP, and the information is encoded using a standard format called the Management Information Base (MIB).
Implementation and Use Cases
SNMP is implemented in a variety of network devices and management systems, including routers, switches, servers, and network monitoring tools. SNMP is widely used in enterprise networks to monitor and manage network devices, and to diagnose and troubleshoot network problems.
One common use case for SNMP is in network monitoring and performance management. Network administrators use SNMP to monitor the health and performance of network devices, and to detect and diagnose network problems such as congestion, errors, and bottlenecks.
Another use case for SNMP is in network security and access control. SNMP can be used to enforce access policies and to detect and respond to security threats such as unauthorized access and denial-of-service attacks.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of SNMP is that it provides a standard way for network administrators to monitor and manage network devices, which makes it easier to troubleshoot network problems and to ensure network performance and reliability.
However, there are some limitations to SNMP that should be taken into account. One potential limitation is that SNMP can be vulnerable to security threats such as spoofing and denial-of-service attacks, which can compromise the integrity and availability of network devices. Additionally, SNMP can be complex to configure and manage, which may require specialized expertise. To mitigate these risks, it is important to use secure SNMP implementations and to follow best practices for SNMP configuration and management.
Modern computing relies heavily on network security protocols to defend digital networks and the data carried across them from cyber threats. Common protocols include TLS, SSH, IPsec, Kerberos, and SNMP.
References
2.3. Network Security StandardsIn addition to network security protocols, there are also various network security standards that have been developed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network data and resources. These standards provide a framework for implementing and managing network security, and help organizations to meet regulatory and compliance requirements. In this section, we will explore some of the most widely used network security standards, including their purpose, implementation, and benefits.
2.3.1. IEEE 802.1x
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1x is a network security standard that provides a mechanism for controlling access to network resources. IEEE 802.1x is widely used in enterprise networks to ensure that only authorized devices and users are allowed to access the network [6].
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of IEEE 802.1x is to provide a framework for authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) in network environments. IEEE 802.1x enables network administrators to control access to network resources by requiring users and devices to authenticate themselves before they are allowed to access the network.
IEEE 802.1x works by using a standard set of messages and protocols that are sent between the network access device (NAD) and the authentication server. The authentication process typically involves a user providing a set of credentials, such as a username and password, which are then verified by the authentication server. If the credentials are valid, the NAD allows the user or device to access the network.
Implementation and Use Cases
IEEE 802.1x is implemented in a variety of network devices and authentication servers, including routers, switches, wireless access points, and identity management systems. IEEE 802.1x is widely used in enterprise networks to control access to network resources, and to enforce security policies such as network segmentation and device isolation.
One common use case for IEEE 802.1x is in wireless network security. IEEE 802.1x can be used to ensure that only authorized users and devices are allowed to connect to a wireless network, and to prevent unauthorized access and eavesdropping.
Another use case for IEEE 802.1x is in network segmentation and access control. IEEE 802.1x can be used to enforce policies such as restricting access to certain network resources based on user or device identity, or segmenting network traffic based on the sensitivity of the data being transmitted.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of IEEE 802.1x is that it provides a strong framework for network authentication and access control, which helps to ensure the security and integrity of network resources. IEEE 802.1x also enables network administrators to enforce security policies and to ensure regulatory compliance.
In addition to implementation complexity, IEEE 802.1x may not be suitable for all network environments, as it may not be compatible with all network devices or authentication protocols. In terms of security, there has been some reports of MiTM attacks because of the fact that 802.1X authenticates only at the beginning of the connection. On possible mititgation for wired networks is the use of IPsec or a combination of IPsec and 802.1X.
2.3.2. RADIUS
Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) is a widely used network security standard that provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) services [7]. RADIUS was originally developed by Livingston Enterprises and was later integrated into IEEE 802 and IETF standards.
Purpose and Functionality
RADIUS is primarily used for managing access to network resources and ensuring the security of the network. RADIUS serves as a client/server protocol and operates in the application layer of the OSI model. It enables network administrators to control access to network resources by authenticating and authorizing users based on their credentials, such as username and password. RADIUS also provides accounting services to track network usage and generate reports for billing and auditing purposes.
Implementation and Use Cases
RADIUS is widely used in enterprise networks, service provider networks, and wireless networks. It is implemented as a server that receives authentication requests from clients, such as routers, switches, or wireless access points, and responds with acceptance or rejection based on the user's credentials. RADIUS servers can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud, and they can be integrated with other security protocols, such as TLS or IPsec, to provide secure authentication and authorization.
RADIUS is commonly used in environments where multiple users need to access network resources, such as corporate networks, universities, and public Wi-Fi hotspots. It is also used in remote access scenarios, where users need to connect to the network over a VPN or dial-up connection. RADIUS is an important component of many network security architectures and is essential for ensuring the security and integrity of the network.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the main advantages of RADIUS is its ability to provide centralized authentication and authorization services for a large number of users and devices. It allows network administrators to control access to network resources from a single point and enforce security policies consistently across the network. RADIUS also provides accounting services that enable network administrators to monitor network usage, generate reports, and bill users for services.
One of the main limitations of RADIUS is that it has a single point of failure. If the RADIUS server goes down, users will not be able to access network resources until the server is restored. RADIUS also requires a certain level of configuration and maintenance, which can be complex and time-consuming. Finally, RADIUS is vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as dictionary attacks, where an attacker tries to guess a user's password by trying a large number of possible passwords.
2.3.3. Network Access Control (NAC)
Network Access Control (NAC) is a security solution that enables organizations to control access to their network resources. It is a network security management approach that restricts access to network resources based on a user's identity, device, and compliance status [8]. NAC helps organizations to ensure that only authorized and compliant devices and users can access their network, thereby preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive data from security threats.
Purpose and Functionality
The purpose of NAC is to ensure that only authorized and compliant devices and users can access an organization's network. NAC solutions typically employ a combination of network authentication, endpoint compliance, and network segmentation to provide secure access control. NAC solutions use various technologies such as 802.1X authentication, MAC address authentication, and DHCP fingerprinting to authenticate users and devices.
NAC solutions also perform endpoint compliance checks to ensure that devices meet a specified security policy before allowing access to the network. These checks may include antivirus and anti-malware scans, patch management, and firewall configuration. NAC solutions can also segment the network, ensuring that devices are placed in specific network segments based on their identity and compliance status.
Implementation and Use Cases
NAC can be implemented using a variety of technologies, including software agents installed on endpoint devices, network-based agents that monitor network traffic, or hybrid solutions that combine both. NAC can be used in various scenarios, such as securing remote access to the network, controlling access to wireless networks, or securing access to cloud-based resources.
NAC can be especially useful in organizations that have a large number of remote workers, contractors, or third-party vendors who require access to their network resources. By implementing NAC, organizations can ensure that only authorized devices and users can access their network, thereby reducing the risk of security breaches.
Advantages and Limitations
The advantages of NAC include enhanced network security, improved compliance, and reduced risk of data breaches. By controlling access to the network based on identity and compliance status, NAC solutions provide an additional layer of security that can prevent unauthorized access and mitigate security risks.
However, NAC solutions can also have limitations. For example, implementing NAC can be complex and require significant resources, such as time and financial investment. NAC solutions can also be difficult to implement in environments that have a large number of legacy devices or non-compliant users. Additionally, NAC solutions can cause network latency and other performance issues if not implemented correctly.
Standards are formalized and widely accepted protocols. Common network security standards include IEEE 802.1x, RADIUS, and NAC.
References
case studyImplementing Network Security Protocols in a Healthcare SettingProblem
A healthcare organization was experiencing a rise in cyberattacks, putting patients' sensitive medical information at risk. The organization's IT department realized that they needed to implement network security protocols to secure their network and ensure patient data privacy.
Solution
The IT department implemented several network security protocols, including:
Results
The implementation of network security protocols resulted in a significant reduction in cyberattacks against the healthcare organization's network. Patient data privacy was also ensured, as all sensitive medical information was encrypted and securely transmitted over the network.
Case Study Questions
Attempt to answer the following questions before revealing the model answers:
This case study illustrates how the implementation of network security protocols can address specific problems and improve the overall security of a network. It also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and updates to ensure the continued effectiveness of security measures.
Research AssignmentNetwork Security Protocols: A Comprehensive ReviewIntroduction
Network security is a critical concern for any organization that relies on computer networks for its operations. Network security protocols are a set of rules and procedures designed to protect networks from unauthorized access and data breaches. These protocols play a crucial role in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information stored and transmitted over networks. This research assignment aims to provide a comprehensive review of the network security protocols commonly used in the industry.
Research Questions
In order to evaluate the effectiveness of NIDS in detecting and responding to APTs, the following methods will be used:
Methodology
This research assignment will employ a systematic review of the existing literature on network security protocols. A range of relevant sources will be utilized, including peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and books. The research will also include a critical evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the reviewed sources to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings.
Expected Results
The research assignment is expected to provide a comprehensive review of the network security protocols used in the industry, including their purpose, functionality, implementation, use cases, advantages, and limitations. The findings will also identify the current trends and future directions in network security protocols, providing insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing these protocols in organizations.
Assessment Criteria
The research assignment aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on network security protocols by providing a comprehensive review of the current state of the art in the industry. The findings of the research can help organizations improve their network security by identifying the most effective protocols for their needs and developing appropriate implementation strategies. Additionally, the research can provide insights for future research and development in the field of network security protocols.
Ads By Google
Module SummaryModule Revision QuestionsModule Glossary| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| IEEE 802.1x | Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1x is a network security standard that provides a mechanism for controlling access to network resources |
| FTP | File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a popular method for transferring files |
| SFTP | Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) encrypts data being transfered |
| TLS | Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a network security cryptographic protocol that is designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over digital networks |
| SSH | Secure Shell (SSH) is another cryptographic network security protocol that provides secure remote access to digital devices over a network |
| IPsec | Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) is a network security protocol suite that is used to provide secure communication over IP networks |
| SNMP | Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a protocol used to manage and monitor network devices such as routers |
| VPN | A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a secure network that allows users to access a private network, such as a corporate network |
| RADIUS | Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) is a widely used network security standard that provides centralized AAA services |
| AAA | Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) |
| NAC | Network Access Control (NAC) is a security solution that enables organizations to control access to their network resources |