Cisco TACACS Server Host: Everything Dev Needs to Know

Dear Dev, if you’re looking to improve your network security, it’s essential to have a TACACS server. Cisco TACACS server offers centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) services for network devices. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Cisco TACACS server host.

What is TACACS+

TACACS+ stands for Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus. It’s an authentication protocol that provides AAA services for network devices. TACACS+ is an updated and secure version of the original TACACS protocol (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System). Cisco supports both TACACS+ and RADIUS protocols for AAA services.

How Does TACACS+ Work?

TACACS+ separates the AAA services into three different components: authentication, authorization, and accounting. It provides a central point of control for network devices, allowing network administrators to manage user access efficiently.

When a user tries to access a network device, the device sends a request to the TACACS+ server for authentication. The TACACS+ server then sends the user’s credentials to the authentication server, such as Active Directory, for verification. Once the user is authenticated, the authorization process begins. The TACACS+ server checks the user’s authorization level and grants or denies access accordingly. Accounting services track user activity and generate reports for auditing purposes.

What is a Cisco TACACS Server Host?

A TACACS server host is a server that provides TACACS+ services for network devices. The Cisco TACACS server host is a network device that runs the TACACS+ protocol to provide AAA services. The Cisco TACACS server can be a standalone server or an application running on an existing server.

Benefits of a Cisco TACACS Server Host

The Cisco TACACS server host offers several benefits for network administrators:

Cisco TACACS Server Host Configuration

To configure the Cisco TACACS server host, you need to perform the following steps:

Step 1: Install the Cisco TACACS Server Host

You can install the Cisco TACACS server host on a standalone server or an application running on an existing server. Cisco provides detailed installation instructions for the Cisco Secure ACS server and the Cisco ISE server.

Step 2: Configure Network Devices to Use TACACS+

To enable TACACS+ services for network devices, you need to configure the devices to use the TACACS+ server for AAA services. You can configure network devices individually or use network management tools like Cisco Prime Infrastructure to automate the process.

Step 3: Configure TACACS+ Policies

You need to configure TACACS+ policies to specify user access to network devices. TACACS+ policies define what users can and cannot do on network devices. You can create custom policies for individual users or groups of users.

Step 4: Test TACACS+ Services

You need to test TACACS+ services to ensure that the configuration is working correctly. You can use the debug commands on the network devices or the TACACS+ server to troubleshoot any issues.

FAQ

What is the difference between TACACS+ and RADIUS?

TACACS+ and RADIUS are both AAA protocols. The main difference between the two protocols is that TACACS+ separates the AAA services into three different components: authentication, authorization, and accounting. RADIUS combines authentication and authorization into a single step. TACACS+ also offers stronger encryption and hashing algorithms than RADIUS.

Can I use TACACS+ with non-Cisco devices?

Yes, TACACS+ is a standard protocol that can be used with non-Cisco devices. However, you need to ensure that the devices support TACACS+ and configure them accordingly.

What is the difference between Cisco Secure ACS and Cisco ISE?

Cisco Secure ACS and Cisco ISE are both TACACS+ servers provided by Cisco. The main difference between the two servers is that Cisco ISE provides additional features like network access control and endpoint identity services.

Can I use TACACS+ for wireless authentication?

Yes, TACACS+ can be used for wireless authentication. Cisco wireless controllers and access points support TACACS+ for AAA services.

What are the best practices for TACACS+ configuration?

The following are some best practices for TACACS+ configuration:

• Use strong authentication protocols like MSCHAPv2 or EAP-TLS.
• Limit the number of users with administrative access to network devices.
• Use custom policies to restrict user access to network devices.
• Encrypt all TACACS+ traffic using SSL or IPsec.
• Regularly review TACACS+ logs for suspicious activity.

Conclusion

The Cisco TACACS server host is an essential component of a secure network. It provides centralized AAA services for network devices, allowing network administrators to manage user access efficiently. By following the configuration steps and best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your network is secure and your users are authenticated, authorized, and accounted for.