Creating a RADIUS server in Windows Server 2012 involves installing and configuring specific server roles, primarily the Network Policy Server (NPS). These steps build upon a standard Windows Server installation to provide the necessary infrastructure for centralized network access authentication.
Based on the process outlined for configuring Windows Server 2012 as a RADIUS server, the core requirements involve setting up foundational services before installing the RADIUS server role itself.
Essential Steps to Create a RADIUS Server (NPS)
The following steps are necessary to set up a RADIUS server environment in Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 R2, according to the provided reference:
- Install and Set Up Windows Server 2012/Windows Server 2012 R2:
- This is the initial step, requiring a functional installation of the Windows Server operating system that will host the RADIUS server. Ensure the server is updated and has a static IP address.
- Install Active Directory Domain Services (ADDS) to Configure the New Domain:
- ADDS is crucial for managing user accounts, groups, and computer objects. A RADIUS server often authenticates users against an Active Directory database. Installing ADDS involves promoting the server to a domain controller and creating a new domain or joining an existing one.
- Install Certificate Authorities (CA) with Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS):
- ADCS is required, especially when implementing secure authentication methods like PEAP (Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol) or EAP-TLS (Extensible Authentication Protocol-Transport Layer Security), which rely on digital certificates to verify the identity of the server and/or the client.
- Install NPS (Network Policy Server):
- NPS is the Windows Server role that functions as the RADIUS server. It processes connection requests, authorizes connections based on defined policies, and performs accounting. This role needs to be installed using Server Manager.
Why These Components Are Necessary
- Active Directory Domain Services (ADDS): Provides a centralized database of users and computers, making it possible for the RADIUS server (NPS) to authenticate users accessing the network.
- Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS): Enables the server to issue and manage digital certificates. These certificates are vital for secure RADIUS authentication methods, preventing eavesdropping and ensuring clients are connecting to a legitimate server.
- Network Policy Server (NPS): This is the core component that is the RADIUS server functionality in Windows. It allows you to define who can connect, when, and how, based on user properties, group memberships, and connection attributes.
Key Components Summary
| Component Name | Windows Server Role | Primary Function for RADIUS |
|---|---|---|
| Server Operating System | N/A | Provides the platform for running services |
| Active Directory Domain Services | Active Directory Domain Svc | Centralizes user/computer accounts for authentication |
| Active Directory Certificate Svc(CA) | Active Directory Cert Svc | Manages certificates for secure authentication (PEAP, EAP-TLS) |
| Network Policy Server | Network Policy and Access | Acts as the RADIUS server, processing auth/authz requests |
Beyond Installation: Configuration
While the reference focuses on the necessary installations, creating a functional RADIUS server also requires configuration after these roles are installed. This includes:
- Registering NPS in Active Directory.
- Adding RADIUS clients (your network access servers like Wi-Fi access points or VPN concentrators) to NPS.
- Configuring Connection Request Policies to determine which requests NPS processes.
- Configuring Network Policies to specify who is authorized and what restrictions apply (e.g., required encryption, VLAN assignment).
- Setting up certificate templates and issuing certificates via the CA if using certificate-based authentication.
In summary, creating a RADIUS server in Windows Server 2012 is a multi-step process involving setting up foundational infrastructure like Active Directory and a Certificate Authority before installing and configuring the Network Policy Server role.
