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350-701 Practice Question: In the 802.1X authentication process, which…
In the 802.1X authentication process, which component is responsible for relaying authentication messages between the client and the authentication server?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that the RADIUS proxy is the relay component, but the authenticator (switch/AP) is the standard relay in 802.1X, while a RADIUS proxy is an optional network element for routing RADIUS traffic between different administrative domains.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Authenticator
In the 802.1X authentication process, the authenticator (typically a switch or wireless access point) is responsible for relaying Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) messages between the supplicant (client) and the authentication server (e.g., ISE). The authenticator encapsulates EAP frames into RADIUS packets for transmission to the server, acting as a transparent proxy that does not modify or terminate the EAP conversation. This role is defined in IEEE 802.1X-2010, where the authenticator controls port access based on the authentication result.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Authentication server (ISE)
Why it's wrong here
ISE is the server that validates credentials, but it does not relay messages; the authenticator does.
- ✗
RADIUS proxy
Why it's wrong here
A RADIUS proxy can forward messages but is not a standard component of 802.1X; the authenticator is the standard relay.
- ✓
Authenticator
Why this is correct
The authenticator (e.g., switch) forwards EAP messages between the supplicant and the authentication server.
- ✗
Supplicant
Why it's wrong here
The supplicant is the client software that initiates authentication.
Quick reference
AAA Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port(s) | Encryption | Transport | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RADIUS | 1812 / 1813 | Password only | UDP | Network access control |
| TACACS+ | 49 | Full packet | TCP | Device administration |
| Diameter | 3868 | Full session | TCP / SCTP | Carrier / mobile networks |
| 802.1X | — | EAP-based | Layer 2 | Port-based access control |
TACACS+ encrypts the entire packet; RADIUS only encrypts the password field — a key exam distinction.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 350-701 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 350-701 exam.