EAPs

EAPs can refer to two distinct areas of expertise: Extensible Authentication Protocols and Employee Assistance Programs. This article summarizes both meanings in a concise, neutral way.

Extensible Authentication Protocols (EAP) is a framework for network access authentication. It enables a variety of authentication methods to be used within a single negotiation, making it adaptable to different security requirements and network environments. Defined in RFC 3748, EAP is employed in PPP connections, wireless networks (such as WPA2-Enterprise and WPA3-Enterprise), VPNs, and wired LANs with 802.1X. Common methods include EAP-TLS (certificate-based), EAP-PEAP and EAP-TTLS (tunneled methods), and EAP-FAST. In practice, EAP typically relies on a backend authentication server such as RADIUS or Diameter. Security considerations center on the chosen method, certificate management, mutual authentication, and protection against impersonation or man-in-the-middle attacks, with some methods offering stronger security properties than others.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are employer-sponsored services designed to help employees manage personal or work-related problems that could affect performance and well-being. Services commonly include confidential counseling, mental health resources, substance abuse programs, financial and legal guidance, and work-life support. EAPs may be provided on-site, through third-party providers, or via digital platforms. Reported benefits include improved productivity, reduced absenteeism, and lower healthcare costs, though uptake can be influenced by privacy concerns and stigma. EAPs are typically voluntary and confidential, funded by the employer, and tailored to organizational policy and local regulations.