Microsoft Authentication Protocol

Authentication is the key to accessing your user account on a network.

Authentication protocol is very important when you are trying to keep a network or computer secure. Microsoft has revised their authentication protocol since Windows 2000 to what is now called Extensible Authentication Protocol or EAP.

Function

Authentication protocol is how a user is able to log on to a computer or request network access. When the user types in their username and password, the authentication protocol takes over by packaging up the username and password and sending them over to the authentication server to make sure the username and password are correct.

Benefits

Authentication protocol provides the network administrator with the tools to allow users to log on to the network without worrying about intrusion. Using Microsoft's Extensible Authentication Protocol allows for a greater security, because unlike some protocols, you can use this with other authentication methods such as the handshake protocol.

Misconceptions

Even though Microsoft has made great accomplishments toward securing computers and networks, there is always a chance that intruders will get through. Authentication protocol is not fool-proof and there is no such thing as a completely secure network.

References

• Microsoft: Basic Overview of Kerberos User Authentication Protocol in Windows 2000
• Microsoft: Extensible Authentication Protocol Overview