Which authentication framework is most commonly used for wireless networks?

EAP, or Extensible Authentication Protocol, is an authentication framework that provides a flexible method for authenticating users in wireless networks. Its design allows for various authentication methods to be incorporated, making it well-suited for environments where different authentication techniques may be necessary. This flexibility includes support for passwords, certificates, smart cards, and even biometric factors, which are essential in adapting to the specific security requirements of different wireless deployments.

EAP is widely implemented in conjunction with WPA/WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) to secure wireless communications, particularly in enterprise networks. The protocol helps in establishing mutual authentication between the client and the server, ensuring that both ends can verify each other's identity before establishing a connection.

The other options, while related to network security, do not serve as the primary framework for authentication in wireless networks. LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) is used for directory services, OAuth is a protocol for authorization, and RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) serves as a client-server protocol that can work with EAP but is not an authentication framework itself. RADIUS often supports EAP as part of its functions, but EAP is specifically designed for the authentication of devices and users within wireless networks.