Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Practice Test

In which situation is web authentication considered appropriate?

1. When a fallback authentication method is not necessary

2. When 802.1x authentication is required

3. When devices outside the IT control are allowed to connect

4. When secure connections to the network are mandatory

The correct answer is: When devices outside the IT control are allowed to connect

Web authentication is particularly appropriate in scenarios where devices outside the IT control are allowed to connect. This often occurs in environments such as guest networks, public Wi-Fi hotspots, or when personal devices need to be granted temporary access. In these cases, web authentication provides a simple method for users to authenticate themselves through a web portal without requiring extensive fortifications or controlled device management, which may not be feasible for external devices. This method allows organizations to maintain security while accommodating users who may not have compatible authentication methods or devices managed by the IT department. By implementing web authentication, network administrators can enforce terms of use and ensure some level of access control for external users while minimizing the complexity of their network’s security posture. This approach is less demanding in terms of preconfigured device compliance compared to scenarios that require methods such as 802.1x, where tightly controlled authentication processes are necessary.