EAP-FAST vs. EAP-TLS

Attribute	EAP-FAST	EAP-TLS
Authentication method	Username/password based	Certificate based
Security	Less secure compared to EAP-TLS	Highly secure due to certificate validation
Complexity	Less complex to set up	More complex due to certificate management
Compatibility	Widely supported	Supported by most devices but may require additional configuration

Introduction

When it comes to securing wireless networks, choosing the right Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) method is crucial. EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS are two popular EAP methods that provide different levels of security and authentication. In this article, we will compare the attributes of EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS to help you understand the differences between the two and make an informed decision for your network.

Authentication

EAP-FAST (Flexible Authentication via Secure Tunneling) is a protocol that provides a secure method for client authentication. It uses a Protected Access Credential (PAC) to establish a secure tunnel between the client and the authentication server. On the other hand, EAP-TLS (Transport Layer Security) is a protocol that uses digital certificates for client authentication. This means that EAP-TLS provides a higher level of security compared to EAP-FAST, as it requires the use of digital certificates for authentication.

Security

One of the key differences between EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS is the level of security they provide. EAP-FAST relies on a shared secret key between the client and the authentication server, which can be vulnerable to attacks if not properly secured. In contrast, EAP-TLS uses digital certificates to authenticate clients, providing a higher level of security. Digital certificates are more secure than shared secret keys, as they are unique to each client and cannot be easily compromised.

Implementation

Implementing EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS in a network requires different configurations and setups. EAP-FAST is easier to implement compared to EAP-TLS, as it does not require the use of digital certificates. This makes EAP-FAST a more practical choice for networks that do not have the infrastructure to support digital certificates. On the other hand, EAP-TLS requires the deployment of a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to issue and manage digital certificates, which can be more complex and costly to set up.

Compatibility

Another factor to consider when choosing between EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS is compatibility with existing network infrastructure. EAP-FAST is supported by a wide range of devices and operating systems, making it a versatile choice for most networks. EAP-TLS, on the other hand, may not be supported by all devices and operating systems, as it requires the use of digital certificates for authentication. This can limit the compatibility of EAP-TLS in certain network environments.

Performance

Performance is another important consideration when comparing EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS. EAP-FAST is known for its fast authentication process, as it uses a pre-shared key to establish a secure tunnel between the client and the authentication server. This can result in quicker authentication times and improved network performance. On the other hand, EAP-TLS may have a slower authentication process due to the use of digital certificates, which can impact network performance, especially in large-scale deployments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both EAP-FAST and EAP-TLS are effective EAP methods for securing wireless networks. EAP-FAST provides a simpler implementation and faster authentication process, while EAP-TLS offers a higher level of security and authentication using digital certificates. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as security requirements, compatibility with existing infrastructure, and performance needs to determine which EAP method is best suited for your network.