Configuring Active Directory (AD) Authentication with Cisco ASA

Configuring Active Directory (AD) authentication for VPN connections to a Cisco ASA is a straightforward process that can provide enhanced security and convenience for remote users. In this article, we will outline the steps required to set up this authentication method.

Step 1: Configure the Cisco ASA

The first step is to configure the Cisco ASA to use Active Directory as the authentication method for VPN connections. To do this, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Log in to the Cisco ASA using the command-line interface (CLI) or the ASDM (Adaptive Security Device Manager).
2. Navigate to the “Configuration” tab and select “Remote Access VPN.”
3. Click on “Network (Client) Access” and then “AnyConnect Connection Profiles.”
4. Create a new profile or select an existing one and click “Edit.”
5. In the “Edit AnyConnect Connection Profile” window, navigate to the “Authentication” tab.
6. Select “Active Directory” as the authentication method.
7. Enter the details for your Active Directory domain, such as the domain name and the IP address of the domain controller.
8. Set the authentication timeout and select the group policy that you want to apply.
9. Save the changes and exit the window.

Step 2: Configure the Active Directory Server

The next step is to configure the Active Directory server to allow authentication for VPN connections. To do this, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Open the Active Directory Users and Computers management console.
2. Navigate to the user or group that you want to allow VPN access.
3. Right-click on the user or group and select “Properties.”
4. Click on the “Dial-in” tab and select “Allow access” under “Network Access Permission.”
5. Save the changes and exit the window.

Step 3: Test the Connection

Once you have configured both the Cisco ASA and the Active Directory server, you can test the connection to ensure that it is working correctly. To do this, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Connect to the VPN using the AnyConnect client.
2. Enter the username and password for the user that you configured in Active Directory.
3. If the connection is successful, you should be able to access the resources that you have permission to access.

In conclusion, configuring Active Directory authentication for VPN connections to a Cisco ASA is a relatively easy process that can provide enhanced security and ease of access for remote users. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up this authentication method and test it to ensure that it is working correctly.