F

FreeRADIUS

Alan DeKok  ❘ Open Source

Reliable and Flexible RADIUS Server Solution

David Fischer

FreeRADIUS, developed by Alan DeKok, is a powerful and highly configurable RADIUS server that excels in providing authentication, authorization, and accounting services for network access, making it an excellent choice for both small and large organizations.
2025 Editor's Rating

Review of FreeRADIUS by Alan DeKok

FreeRADIUS is an open-source, high-performance Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server. Developed by Alan DeKok, it provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting management for network access.

Key Features:

  • Scalability: FreeRADIUS is designed to handle thousands of requests per second, making it suitable for large-scale deployments.
  • Flexibility: It supports various authentication protocols such as PAP, CHAP, MS-CHAP, EAP, and more, offering flexibility to cater to different network configurations.
  • Extensibility: Users can extend FreeRADIUS functionality through custom scripts and modules, allowing for integration with existing systems and services.
  • Logging and Reporting: FreeRADIUS provides detailed logging and accounting features, enabling administrators to track and analyze network access activities.
  • Security: With support for strong encryption and secure protocols, FreeRADIUS ensures that network communication remains safe and protected against unauthorized access.

Benefits:

  • Cost-Effective Solution: Being open-source, FreeRADIUS eliminates licensing costs, making it a cost-effective solution for organizations looking to implement a reliable RADIUS server.
  • Community Support: The software benefits from a large community of users and developers who contribute to its ongoing development and provide support through forums and documentation.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: FreeRADIUS runs on various operating systems such as Linux, Unix, macOS, and Windows, ensuring compatibility with diverse IT environments.

Use Cases:

FreeRADIUS is ideal for businesses, educational institutions, ISPs, and any organization needing a robust RADIUS server for managing network authentication and access control. Whether you have a small network or a complex infrastructure, FreeRADIUS offers the flexibility and scalability to meet your requirements.

FreeRADIUS by Alan DeKok is a feature-rich RADIUS server solution that combines performance, security, and scalability. With its extensive capabilities, flexibility, and community support, it serves as a reliable choice for organizations seeking a centralized authentication and access management system.

Overview

FreeRADIUS is a Open Source software in the category Security developed by Alan DeKok.

The latest version of FreeRADIUS is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 10/16/2009.

FreeRADIUS runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

FreeRADIUS has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

  • Flexible and customizable: FreeRADIUS allows for extensive customization and configuration to meet specific needs and requirements.
  • Scalable: It can handle a large number of users and devices, making it suitable for both small and large-scale deployments.
  • High performance: FreeRADIUS is known for its fast response times and efficient resource utilization.
  • Authentication support: It has support for various authentication protocols like EAP, PAP, CHAP, MSCHAP, etc.
  • Open-source: Being an open-source software, FreeRADIUS is free to use and modify according to user preferences.

Cons

  • Steep learning curve: Setting up and configuring FreeRADIUS can be challenging for beginners or users with limited networking experience.
  • Limited graphical interface: The absence of a user-friendly GUI can make it difficult for some users to navigate and manage the application.
  • Documentation: The official documentation for FreeRADIUS might be outdated or not detailed enough, making it hard to troubleshoot issues or implement complex configurations.
  • Lack of official support: As a free and open-source software, FreeRADIUS might not offer dedicated support like commercial products, leading to reliance on community forums or self-help resources.

FAQ

What is FreeRADIUS?

FreeRADIUS is an open-source, high-performance, modular and scalable RADIUS server that is widely used for authentication, authorization, and accounting in network infrastructure.

Who is Alan DeKok?

Alan DeKok is one of the original creators and maintainers of FreeRADIUS. He has been actively involved in the project since its inception in 1999 and continues to lead its development.

How does FreeRADIUS handle authentication?

FreeRADIUS supports various authentication mechanisms including PAP, CHAP, EAP, and more. It can authenticate users against local databases or external sources such as LDAP, SQL databases, or Active Directory.

Is FreeRADIUS scalable?

Yes, FreeRADIUS is designed to be highly scalable and can handle a large number of authentication requests per second. It supports clustering and load balancing to distribute the workload across multiple servers.

Can FreeRADIUS be extended with additional functionality?

Yes, FreeRADIUS is highly extensible through the use of modules. Administrators can add custom functionality by writing their own modules or by using existing third-party modules to enhance its capabilities.

What platforms does FreeRADIUS support?

FreeRADIUS is cross-platform and can run on various operating systems including Linux, BSD, macOS, and Windows. It is widely deployed in enterprise environments and service provider networks.

How secure is FreeRADIUS?

FreeRADIUS supports strong encryption protocols for secure communication such as TLS and PEAP. It also has built-in protection mechanisms against common security threats like dictionary attacks and DoS attacks.

Is FreeRADIUS suitable for large-scale deployments?

Yes, FreeRADIUS is well-suited for large-scale deployments due to its scalability, performance, and flexibility. It is used by organizations of all sizes to authenticate users in diverse network environments.

How active is the development community around FreeRADIUS?

The FreeRADIUS project has a vibrant community of developers and users who actively contribute to its development and provide support through forums, mailing lists, and GitHub repositories.

Can I contribute to the FreeRADIUS project?

Yes, the FreeRADIUS project welcomes contributions from the community. You can get involved by submitting bug reports, writing code patches, testing new features, or participating in discussions with other users and developers.


David Fischer

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

Latest Reviews by David Fischer

Download not yet available. Please add one.

Stay up-to-date
with UpdateStar freeware.

Latest Reviews

E Epson WF-C5710_WF-C5790 Guide
Epson WF-C5710/WF-C5790 Guide Offers Detailed Printer Support and Setup
Entropy : Zero Entropy : Zero
Entropy : Zero by Breadman - Intense Action with Mixed Reception
W Warcraft III Reforged MULTi5 - ElAmigos versión
Mixed Reviews for Warcraft III Reforged: A Nostalgic Remaster with Controversies
OpenOffice Language Pack (English) OpenOffice Language Pack (English)
OpenOffice Language Pack (English) Enhances Accessibility for Users
C CPUID TAICHI CPU-Z
CPUID TAICHI CPU-Z: A Robust System Information Tool
W Windows-Treiberpaket - Advanced Card Systems Ltd. Unified PC/SC Driver (03/03/2014
Reliable and Essential Card Reader Driver for Windows
UpdateStar Premium Edition UpdateStar Premium Edition
Keeping Your Software Updated Has Never Been Easier with UpdateStar Premium Edition!
Microsoft Edge Microsoft Edge
A New Standard in Web Browsing
Google Chrome Google Chrome
Fast and Versatile Web Browser
Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Package Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Package
Boost your system performance with Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Package!
Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable
Essential Component for Running Visual C++ Applications
Microsoft Update Health Tools Microsoft Update Health Tools
Microsoft Update Health Tools: Ensure Your System is Always Up-to-Date!

Latest Updates


123 Learn Numbers with Kaju 2.0.9

This application raises concerns about the potential for children to engage in excessive passive screen time, which some research suggests could pose health risks.

Swachh Delhi:The Official App 1.0

Swachh Delhi is a government-led initiative jointly managed by the Government of Delhi and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), designed to facilitate the reporting of illegal waste deposits and garbage dumps throughout the city.

Rada - Service Around 2.3.6

Rada: Vietnam's Leading On-Demand House & Home Service Platform Rada is a mobile application designed to streamline the process of addressing household and vehicle maintenance needs by connecting users with qualified local service …

AumeoHub 1.1.2

The Aumeo system is designed to enhance audio personalization through precise tailoring to individual hearing sensitivities.

Fuel@IOC 6.1.3

Fuel@IOC is a mobile application developed by IndianOil, designed for customers across India to efficiently locate IndianOil petrol stations nationwide.

Lada Sedan Eggplant Simulator 1.0

The Lada Sedan Eggplant Simulator is a lighthearted mobile application that humorously mimics the experience of owning a classic Russian car.