PCNSE Practice Question: Securing Users and Applications with Authentication
Which TWO authentication methods are supported for captive portal on a Palo Alto Networks firewall?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common trap is assuming only SAML and RADIUS are supported. Local Database is also a valid method, so if the question asks for two, any combination of SAML, RADIUS, and Local Database qualifies. TACACS+ and Kerberos are not supported for captive portal.
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
✓
SAML
SAML enables browser-based SSO using an external IdP. RADIUS is widely used for network authentication and integrates with existing RADIUS servers. Local Database allows authentication against local user entries on the firewall. All three methods are supported for captive portal; the question requires any two.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
SAML
Why this is correct
SAML is supported and often used for federated SSO.
- ✗
TACACS+
Why it's wrong here
TACACS+ is not supported for captive portal; it is used for management access.
- ✓
RADIUS
Why this is correct
RADIUS is supported and integrates with existing RADIUS servers.
- ✓
Local Database
Why this is correct
Local Database is supported, allowing authentication against locally stored user accounts.
- ✗
Kerberos
Why it's wrong here
Kerberos is not supported for captive portal 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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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This PCNSE practice question is part of Courseiva's free Palo Alto Networks 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 PCNSE exam.