Which component is crucial for establishing a secure connection in an Aruba network?

The RADIUS Server is a critical component for establishing secure connections in an Aruba network. RADIUS, which stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting for users who connect and use a network service. By leveraging RADIUS, an Aruba network can ensure that only users who are properly authenticated and authorized can access the network resources.

When a client device attempts to connect to the network, it sends credentials to the RADIUS Server, which checks these credentials against its database. If they are valid, access is granted; if not, the connection is denied. This process not only secures the network but also allows for detailed logging of user activities, which is important for compliance and security audits.

In comparison, while the client device plays a role in connecting to the network and the DHCP server is responsible for assigning IP addresses, they do not handle the authentication process that is fundamental to establishing a secure connection. Outdoor APs, while they extend network coverage, do not influence the security protocols or authentication processes, making the RADIUS Server the key component for secure connections.