Review: Avenda Quick1X 802.1X Configuration Tool - Page 2

Generating and deploying the wizard

After I configured a network, I clicked the Deployment tab and hit the button to generate the package.

Again, here it would have been nice to get more on-screen tips or help on deployment options and instructions.

Next, I unzipped and uploaded the files to a web server. Then I visited the URL, like an end-user would do. Figure 5 shows an example. When I clicked the Start button it simply let me download the configuration wizard.

Running the end-user wizard

When I ran the wizard in Windows, I got the screen pictured in Figure 6. To continue, you click Next. If there are multiple networks defined in Quick1X, you'll be prompted to choose the desired network. If the PEAP or TTLS methods are used, you'll be prompted to enter a Username and Password.

If any applications were included, it will prompt the user and launch them.

After it configures the network profile in Windows, as shown in Figure 7, you can hit Connect or Finish. I don't have any real concerns with the wizard and end-user experience; it went smoothly.

Final impressions

Avenda did deliver on their promise of a simple and painless process for end-user configuration. However, I did find a couple items they could improve upon, mostly on the administrator's side dealing with help/documentation and user-friendliness. Avenda did mention they are working on an Implementation Guide; hopefully this will have more depth. Quick1X's functionality is also more simple and basic compared to similar solutions from other companies, however it does support NAP.

I recommend considering Quick1X to help configure users for 802.1X, especially if you're interested in their eTIPS solution.

Pros

• Integrates with Network Access Protection (NAP) functionality.
• Can include third-party applications with the end-user wizard.
• Distributes Personal (PSK) mode keys as well.

Cons

• Lacking on-screen help or tips for admins.
• Configuration not very user-friendly for admins.

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Eric Geier is the Founder and CEO of NoWiresSecurity, which helps businesses easily protect their Wi-Fi with enterprise-level encryption by offering an outsourced RADIUS/802.1X authentication service. He is also the author of many networking and computing books, for brands such as For Dummies and Cisco Press.