A brief discussion about AAA server

A brief discussion about AAA server

What is AAA server?

The term AAA stands for authentication, authorization and accounting. An AAA server is that server program, which is able to handle user request to access any computer resource for any enterprise.

What is the work of AAA server?

This server has the interaction with the network access and the gateway servers. It also interacts with databases and directories. And, these databases and directories contain different information related to the user. In this kind of server, the process of authentication, authorization and accounting is done by the Remote Authentication Dial In User Services (RADIUS) network protocol. RADIUS allows different remote users or several computers to access any computerized network server.

Related Coverage

Server Rack Mount - A Brief Discussion

Peer-to-Peer Network, a Brief Discussion

A Brief Discussion on Disc Based Back- Up

A Brief Discussion on DVD Protection

When there is no need of this kind of server, then this server is named as ‘open’ or ‘anonymous’. Use of RADIUS and AAA server is usually seen by internet service providers (ISPs), which can identify the client. Also, this kind of application is helpful in billing their clients properly.

With the use of this type of server, any enterprise becomes able to identify and allow network access to those employees, when they are working from any remote location. When any user sends request to access to a network server from any location,then identification to the server becomes mandatory. This kind of request from the user usually comprises of ‘credentials’, which usually include the form of a username and passphrase or password.

This kind of user request sends different information like, dial-up phone number or network address for the network, which is helpful in verification of the user’s identity. The entire network cross-verifies the information regarding the user against any database.

After the verification process of the user’s identity, the network sends any response back, which comprises ofresponses like, ‘access rejected’, ‘access accepted’ or ‘access challenged’. When the access is rejected, then the user will not be able to access the network. This kind of denial is the result of invalid or unconfirmed credentials. When the access is challenged, then theusers need to give additional information to the network, which would be required for the further verification. Usually, in this case, a higher level of security needs to be maintained in networks. As long as the acceptance of the access takes place, then the user should be authenticated. Also, user should be given access to the network. As per the current standard through which different devices or applications link up with this kind of server is the Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS).