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What happens when you’re the go-to IT person in a small business?
You’re the one everyone calls when the Wi-Fi stops working or someone can’t log in. It feels great to save the day, but it’s frustrating when the tools you rely on make things harder than they need to be.
FreeRADIUS and SecureW2 are well-known options for small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to use when providing secure WiFi for their office space. However, they come with challenges that can slow you down along with your IT team.
This is where JumpCloud’s Cloud RADIUS steps in. It’s simple to set up, easy to use, and designed to keep your network secure without unnecessary hassle.
Let’s explore what each option offers, what they don’t, and which one will work best for your team.
Common Linux RADIUS Choices
Finding the right RADIUS server can be a real blessing for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), but it’s no small feat. Among the contenders, FreeRADIUS and SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS often top the list. These solutions offer distinct benefits but also come with their own quirks.
Let’s kick things off with FreeRADIUS.
FreeRADIUS
FreeRADIUS has earned its reputation as a leading open-source RADIUS server, thanks to its versatility and strong community backing. It’s highly configurable and adaptable so you already know tech teams love it. For an in-depth look, see our FreeRADIUS overview.
Key Features of FreeRADIUS
FreeRADIUS brings a lot to the table:
- It’s open source, which means no licensing fees.
- It supports a wide array of authentication protocols.
- Its configurability allows IT teams to mold it to their exact needs.
These benefits are what most IT managers want if they have to manage diverse network setups and have the time and in-house expertise to set it up.
Advantages of Using FreeRADIUS
The biggest draw? It’s free.
Who does that benefit? SMBs watching their budgets.
IT admins skilled in Linux can customize it to fit their exact needs and squeeze out the maximum value from it. Plus, it’s highly reliable for handling network authentication. For more insights, check out our RADIUS configuration guide.
Limitations and Challenges
Here’s the catch: FreeRADIUS isn’t for the faint of heart. It has a steep learning curve, and setting it up can eat into precious time. Smaller IT teams may struggle with the ongoing maintenance it demands. While it’s powerful, it’s also high-maintenance—something to keep in mind when deciding if it’s the right fit for your team.
FreeRADIUS is a solid choice, but only if you have the skills and time to make the most of it. For many SMBs, that’s a big if. For more help, visit our FAQ on RADIUS to get answers to common questions.
SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS
For SMBs seeking a more user-friendly RADIUS solution, SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS stands out. It’s designed to simplify deployment and enhance security. Naturally, it is appealing to organizations that prioritize modern, cloud-based setups.
Key Features of SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS
SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS integrates seamlessly with cloud directories.
How? By offering robust support for certificate-based authentication. Its centralized management platform simplifies policy control and gives administrators a straightforward way to manage network access.
For SMBs focused on modernizing their infrastructure, this solution provides a balance of convenience and security.
Advantages of Using SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS
Ease of use is where SecureW2 shines. Its user-friendly interface allows SMB IT teams to quickly deploy secure Wi-Fi networks without steep learning curves. The certificate-based authentication ensures that only verified devices access the network and the security becomes more granular.
Learn more about how RADIUS improves Wi-Fi security.
Limitations and Challenges
However, convenience comes at a price. SecureW2’s higher costs can be challenging for SMBs operating on tight budgets. Additionally, it doesn’t offer the level of customization that open-source solutions like FreeRADIUS provide. For IT teams looking for tailored configurations, this lack of flexibility might be a deal-breaker.
SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS is a great fit for SMBs seeking simplicity and strong security, but it might not check all the boxes for organizations looking to cut costs or customize extensively. Before you are awed by the benefits, always consider the limitations so you don’t have to regret any decisions while managing your team.
A Better Linux Option for RADIUS: JumpCloud
When it comes to RADIUS servers, finding the right balance between power and simplicity can feel like an uphill battle. FreeRADIUS brings unmatched customization but demands technical expertise, which smaller setups might not have.
SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS streamlines security yet restricts flexibility. For SMBs juggling limited resources, JumpCloud offers a unified, versatile solution that eliminates the need for compromise.
Key Features of JumpCloud Cloud RADIUS
JumpCloud Cloud RADIUS is built to not only integrate with but also transform modern IT setups. It supports three flexible authentication methods to cater to diverse needs:
- Password-based authentication: Simplifies end-user access by using existing JumpCloud credentials across multiple resources.
- Passwordless authentication (certificate-based): Boosts security with EAP-TLS for advanced authentication setups.
- Delegated authentication with Entra ID: Lets organizations use Entra ID as their identity provider while JumpCloud takes care of RADIUS authentication.
This versatility ensures compatibility with Wi-Fi, VPNs, and more. This is also the reason why it’s ideal for SMBs ready to modernize their network access strategies. Learn more about remote work setups.
Advantages of JumpCloud Cloud RADIUS
JumpCloud Cloud RADIUS stands out by offering a comprehensive platform approach that eliminates the compromises seen in other solutions. Let’s break it down:
- Simplified setup: JumpCloud’s intuitive configuration process means no wrestling with complex setups or lengthy troubleshooting sessions often associated with FreeRADIUS.
- Seamless multi-OS support: Unlike point solutions, JumpCloud is easy to integrate with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Stronger security: By pairing RADIUS with multi-factor authentication (MFA), JumpCloud fortifies your network so only verified users can gain access.
- Versatile authentication options: Whether you need password-based, certificate-based, or delegated authentication, JumpCloud adapts to your specific requirements without adding unnecessary complexity.
Beyond these core advantages, JumpCloud redefines IT management. Its unified platform integrates RADIUS with tools like cloud directory services and device management. What more could an IT team ask for?
Scalability isn’t an afterthought. JumpCloud grows with your organization and supports everything from small teams to global operations. For IT teams prioritizing efficiency and flexibility, JumpCloud is what you can call a “trump card.”
Choosing the Best Fit for Your Organization
Picking the right Linux RADIUS server depends on what your business needs and how your IT setup works. Let’s go over the options one last time.
If you’re okay with a tool that’s flexible but needs time and effort, FreeRADIUS could work. It’s cost-effective and open source, but it’s not the easiest to manage. For small IT teams, it might feel like more work than it’s worth.
If you want a secure system that’s simple to set up, SecureW2 Cloud RADIUS is a solid choice. It works well with cloud directories and keeps your network safe. The downside? It costs more and doesn’t let you customize as much as some might like.
For a solution that’s easy to use and covers all your needs, JumpCloud CLoud RADIUS is hard to beat. It’s simple to set up, grows with your business, and is fully integrated in a cloud-based platform that also supports essential tools like MFA and a cloud directory. Whether you’re securing your Wi-Fi or supporting remote work, JumpCloud makes IT management easier.
The best choice is one that makes your IT team’s job simpler and helps your business grow. If you’re ready to take the next step, try JumpCloud for free or contact our team to get answers that fit your needs.
