When WPA3 with 802.1X authentication is enforced on an HPE Aruba Networking WLAN, the authentication process strictly adheres to security standards. Here’s how the process works:
1. 802.1X Authentication Workflow in WPA3
The client must provide valid credentials (such as certificates or username/password) to authenticate with the RADIUS server via 802.1X.
If the client fails authentication (e.g., due to invalid credentials or lack of proper configuration), the 802.1X handshake fails, and the AP terminates the connection.
2. Role Assignment in WLANs
Default Role: The role assigned to authenticated clients after a successful 802.1X authentication. It is not applied to unauthenticated clients.
Critical Role: This is a fallback role applied when there are issues communicating with the RADIUS server, not when authentication fails.
Initial Role: A temporary role assigned to clients before authentication completes. However, this role is removed once the authentication process determines failure.
3. Behavior Upon Authentication Failure
In the case of an authentication failure, the client does not get assigned to any role (default, critical, or initial) because it does not meet the conditions for network access.
The client is dropped immediately, and no further communication is allowed until reauthentication is attempted.
Explanation of Each Option
A. The AP assigns the client to the WLAN's default role:
Incorrect: The default role applies only after successful authentication, not in case of authentication failure.
B. The AP drops the client because authentication aborts:
Correct: If the client fails authentication, the AP terminates the connection without assigning any roles.
C. The AP assigns the client to the WLAN's critical role:
Incorrect: The critical role is used when the AP cannot reach the RADIUS server, not when authentication fails.
D. The AP assigns the client to the WLAN's initial role:
Incorrect: The initial role is applied during the authentication process, but it is not retained after a failed authentication.
References
Aruba Central WLAN Configuration Guide.
WPA3 and 802.1X Authentication Best Practices in Aruba Networks.
Aruba AP Role Assignment Workflow Documentation.
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