EAP-FAST vs. PEAP

Attribute	EAP-FAST	PEAP
Authentication method	Cisco proprietary	Microsoft proprietary
Security	Uses PAC (Protected Access Credential)	Uses TLS for secure tunneling
Compatibility	Works well with Cisco devices	Works well with Microsoft devices
Deployment	More complex to deploy	Relatively easier to deploy

Introduction

When it comes to securing wireless networks, two popular authentication protocols are EAP-FAST (Extensible Authentication Protocol-Flexible Authentication via Secure Tunneling) and PEAP (Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol). Both protocols provide a secure way for users to authenticate themselves before accessing a network. In this article, we will compare the attributes of EAP-FAST and PEAP to help you understand the differences between the two.

Security

One of the most important aspects of any authentication protocol is security. EAP-FAST and PEAP both provide strong security measures to protect the network from unauthorized access. EAP-FAST uses a combination of TLS (Transport Layer Security) and MS-CHAP (Microsoft Challenge-Handshake Authentication Protocol) to establish a secure tunnel between the client and the authentication server. On the other hand, PEAP also uses TLS to create a secure tunnel, but it can support a variety of inner authentication methods, such as MS-CHAPv2 or EAP-GTC (Generic Token Card).

Compatibility

Another important factor to consider when choosing an authentication protocol is compatibility. EAP-FAST is primarily supported by Cisco devices, making it a popular choice for organizations that use Cisco equipment. PEAP, on the other hand, is supported by a wider range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. This makes PEAP a more versatile option for organizations with diverse IT environments.

Ease of Implementation

Implementing an authentication protocol can be a complex process, so ease of implementation is a key consideration for many organizations. EAP-FAST is known for its ease of implementation, as it does not require the installation of client-side certificates. This can simplify the deployment process and reduce the administrative overhead. PEAP, on the other hand, does require the use of client-side certificates, which can add complexity to the implementation process.

Performance

Performance is another important factor to consider when comparing authentication protocols. EAP-FAST is designed to provide fast authentication, making it a good choice for organizations that require quick access to the network. PEAP, on the other hand, may have slightly slower performance due to the additional overhead of using client-side certificates. However, the difference in performance may be negligible for most users.

Flexibility

Flexibility is also an important attribute to consider when evaluating authentication protocols. EAP-FAST is a proprietary protocol developed by Cisco, which means it may not be as flexible as open standards-based protocols like PEAP. PEAP, on the other hand, is an open standard that is supported by a wide range of vendors and devices. This makes PEAP a more flexible option for organizations that value interoperability and vendor neutrality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both EAP-FAST and PEAP are strong authentication protocols that provide secure access to wireless networks. EAP-FAST offers fast authentication and ease of implementation, making it a good choice for organizations that use Cisco equipment. PEAP, on the other hand, is more versatile and compatible with a wider range of devices and operating systems. Ultimately, the choice between EAP-FAST and PEAP will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your organization.