Extensible Authentication Protocol

An extension framework for PPP that supports multiple, optional authentication mechanisms, including cleartext passwords, challenge-response, and arbitrary dialog sequences. [R3748] (Compare: GSS-API, SASL.)

Tutorial: EAP typically runs directly over IPS data link protocols or OSIRM Layer 2 protocols, i.e., without requiring IP. Originally, EAP was developed for use in PPP, by a host or router that connects to a network server via switched circuits or dial-up lines. Today, EAP's domain of applicability includes other areas of network access control; it is used in wired and wireless LANs with IEEE 802.1X, and in IPsec with IKEv2. EAP is conceptually related to other authentication mechanism frameworks, such as SASL and GSS-API.