The RADIUS Server - Wireless Authentication NPS on Windows 2016 is a pre-configured solution designed to facilitate secure wireless network authentication using Microsoft's Network Policy Server (NPS on Windows Server 2016. This setup enables organizations to implement robust authentication protocols, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access their wireless networks. Key Features and Functionality: - Active Directory Integration: Utilizes Active Directory or local security accounts for user authentication, streamlining access control within existing organizational structures. - Network Access Control: Allows or denies connections to specific wireless networks based on network type and Service Set Identifier (SSID, providing granular control over network access. - Group-Based Access Policies: Enables connection permissions based on Active Directory group memberships, facilitating tailored access policies for different user groups. - Certificate-Based Authentication: Supports machine certificate authentication using trusted certificates, enhancing security through mutual authentication mechanisms. - IEEE 802.1X Support: Offers built-in support for IEEE 802.1X authenticated wireless access with PEAP-MS-CHAP v2, ensuring compatibility with industry-standard authentication protocols. - Comprehensive Logging: Provides accounting logging capabilities, aiding in monitoring and auditing network access activities. - Scalability: Supports an unlimited number of RADIUS clients (Access Points and remote RADIUS server groups, accommodating growing network infrastructures. - Flexible Client Configuration: Allows configuration of RADIUS clients by specifying IP address ranges, simplifying the management of multiple access points. - Single Sign-On (SSO: Integrates with existing SSO solutions, enhancing user convenience and security. - Standards Compliance: Adheres to the RADIUS standards specified by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF in RFCs 2865 and 2866, ensuring interoperability with various network devices. Primary Value and Problem Solved: This solution addresses the critical need for secure and efficient wireless network authentication within organizations. By leveraging NPS on Windows Server 2016, it provides a centralized authentication mechanism that integrates seamlessly with Active Directory, simplifying user management and enforcing consistent access policies. The implementation of certificate-based authentication and support for IEEE 802.1X protocols enhances network security, mitigating risks associated with unauthorized access. Additionally, the scalability and flexibility of the solution make it suitable for organizations of varying sizes, ensuring that as the network grows, the authentication infrastructure can adapt accordingly.