What is a “Supplicant”? – Explanation of devices that issue connection requests in wireless LAN
In the world of wireless LAN (local area network) systems, a “supplicant” refers to a device or software that initiates the process of establishing a connection to a network. It plays a crucial role in the security and authentication procedures of wireless networks.
When a device, such as a laptop or smartphone, tries to connect to a wireless LAN, it acts as a supplicant. The supplicant sends a connection request to the access point or wireless router, requesting access to the network. This request includes the necessary authentication credentials, such as a username and password.
The supplicant follows a specific protocol, such as the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP), to securely communicate and exchange authentication information with the authentication server of the network. This process ensures that only authorized users can gain access to the wireless LAN.
Once the supplicant receives a response from the authentication server, it verifies the server’s credentials to ensure that the connection request is legitimate. If the credentials are valid, the supplicant is granted access to the wireless network, and data communication can begin.
Supplicant software is typically installed on devices and is responsible for managing the authentication process. It provides an interface for users to enter their credentials and handles the communication with the network infrastructure.
It’s important to note that the supplicant’s role extends beyond the initial connection setup. It continues to monitor the connection’s integrity, re-authenticates when necessary, and handles any security-related updates or changes during the connection.
In summary, a supplicant is a device or software that initiates the connection process in wireless LAN systems. Its primary function is to communicate and authenticate with the network infrastructure, ensuring secure and authorized access to the wireless network.
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