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350-701 Practice Question: Which TWO benefits does centralized RADIUS…
Which TWO benefits does centralized RADIUS authentication provide over local authentication on network devices? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that centralized authentication is faster or eliminates the need for a backup method, when in reality it introduces dependency on network reachability and requires a fallback like local authentication for resilience.
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
✓
Centralized accounting and logging of all authentication attempts
Centralized RADIUS authentication aggregates all authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) data on a single server. This provides a unified audit trail for all login attempts across network devices, enabling comprehensive logging and accounting that local authentication cannot offer. Local authentication logs are device-specific and lack centralized aggregation, making forensic analysis and compliance reporting more difficult.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Centralized accounting and logging of all authentication attempts
Why this is correct
RADIUS server provides unified logs.
- ✓
Ability to change passwords or permissions in one place
Why this is correct
Management is centralized.
- ✗
Faster authentication because of local caching
Why it's wrong here
RADIUS adds latency; local is faster.
- ✗
Support for multiple authentication protocols like PAP, CHAP, EAP
Why it's wrong here
Local authentication can also support these protocols.
- ✗
No need for a backup authentication method
Why it's wrong here
Fallback to local is recommended if RADIUS fails.
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
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