Configuring SonicWALL Firewalls
Delivering an in-depth look at the SonicWALL firewall product line, this book covers all aspects including the SOHO devices and the Enterprise SonicWALL firewalls.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Configuring SonicWALL Firewalls
Chapter 5: User Authentication
Introduction
User authentication is one of the most important aspects of the SonicWALL firewall. Without a method of providing for the authentication of users, the firewall would lack the ability to limit who has access to administrative features or virtual private networks (VPNs). By providing a set of strong user authentication capabilities, the SonicWALL firewall helps secure your network. The SonicWALL firewall also provides a balance between security and ease-of-use via the many features supported in its authentication mechanisms.
User authentication on the SonicWALL firewall can at first seem like a daunting task. It has three ways to store the users, and five default groups for assigning permissions.
In this chapter, we will discuss the types of users and how they should be used. We will discuss the types of authentication servers, the features that each authentication user has, and what limitations you should be aware of. Finally, we will show you how to set up users, authentication servers, and more.
Types of Users
The SonicWALL authentication system has the following types of users: Local Users and Guest Accounts. Each of the types of users has specific capabilities associated with its use. In the next section, we will discuss the types of users further and what their uses can or should be.
Local Users
Local users are users that must authenticate to the firewall before being given authorization to access either the firewall or systems behind the firewall. Local users store their authentication credentials on the firewall rather...
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