Which of the following is a benefit of using a central authentication server in 802.1X?

• A. Reduced cost
• B. Consistency in authentication
• C. Immediacy in access control changes
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Centralizing authentication in 802.1X creates a single point where identities are verified and access policies are enforced across the network. Because the same server handles authentication for every authenticator (switches and wireless APs), users experience consistent authentication no matter where they connect. When access privileges need to change, updating the central server’s policies takes effect for new authentications across the entire network, delivering immediacy in access control changes. And since user accounts and policies are managed in one place rather than on dozens of devices, administration is simpler and costs are reduced. Put together, these benefits—consistency, rapid policy updates, and lower administrative overhead—make central authentication in 802.1X clearly advantageous.