A network administrator is configuring an AAA server to manage RADIUS authentication. Which two features are included in RADIUS authentication? (Choose two.)

in the context of RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) authentication:

1. Single process for authentication and authorization: This is correct. In RADIUS, authentication and authorization are typically handled together in a single process. When a RADIUS server receives an authentication request, it checks the credentials and simultaneously determines the network resources that the user is permitted to access. This combined approach is a fundamental aspect of how RADIUS operates, differentiating it from protocols that strictly separate authentication and authorization processes.
2. Separate processes for authentication and authorization: This option does not typically describe RADIUS. While RADIUS can technically support separate processes, in practice, authentication and authorization are usually combined in RADIUS transactions. Other protocols, like TACACS+, are known for more distinct separation of these functions.
3. Hidden passwords during transmission: This is also correct. RADIUS protocol ensures that passwords are hidden or obscured during transmission. Typically, the user’s password is encrypted to prevent it from being sent in clear text across the network, enhancing security by protecting the user credentials during transit.
4. Encryption for all communication: RADIUS does not encrypt the entire packet content; it only encrypts the user’s password. Therefore, while RADIUS provides some level of security for authentication, it is not as secure as protocols that encrypt the entire communication, such as Secure RADIUS (RadSec).
5. Encryption for only the data: This is partially true. RADIUS encrypts the user’s password, which is part of the data within the communication packet. However, other parts of the RADIUS packet, like the username and authorization information, are sent in clear text. This partial encryption is a consideration when assessing the overall security of RADIUS in a network environment.

In summary, RADIUS is known for hiding passwords during transmission and typically handles authentication and authorization in a single process, though it does not encrypt all communication data.