FAQ

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
================================

Q: What is 'pppd-sql'?
A: 'pppd-sql' is a plugin for the Point-to-Point server (pppd)
   which adds PAP and CHAP authentication via a MySQL or PostgreSQL
   database.

Q: What is needed?
A: You need a running PPP Server >= 2.4.4 which allows runtime load
   of plugins. Almost every latest distribution comes with a PPP
   Server which provide this functionality.

Q: Why did you start this project?
A: I was seeking a solution for doing MS-PPTP authentication with
   MySQL for my employer the PlusServer AG.

Q: Why did not extend old 'pppd-mysql' itself?
A: Simple answer: It is a very small project and almost every piece
   of code was rewrittten, so it doesn't make sense. But of course
   it was a great application to learn.

Q: Is it working with MS-CHAPv1 and MS-CHAPv2?
A: Yes it is, this was the main reason for creating this plugin.

Q: Can PAP passwords stored in database using an 'one-way' hash?
A: Yes they can, because with PAP the passwords are transferred in
   plaintext, so the plugin can create a hash from it and compare it
   with the hash stored in database.

Q: Can CHAP, MS-CHAPv1 and MS-CHAPv2 passwords stored in database
   using an 'one-way' hash?
A: No they can't, please take a look into 'README.encryption' for an
   explanation.

Q: Why should I use the symmetric encryption for CHAP, MS-CHAPv1 or
   MS-CHAPv2 and a 'one-way' hash for PAP?
A: Even to secure the storage place of your passwords, please take a
   look into 'README.encryption' too.

Q: Why did you remove the failover functionality?
A: To implement the concurrent connection handler with multiple
   tunnel servers, I need to store the login status inside the
   database. If you use multiple database servers, the write access
   may result in asynchronous data.

Q: I have a cool idea for 'pppd-sql' but don't know C.
A: No problem, i started this utility to enhance the PPP Server
   with some cool features. So look at the authors file and send me
   an email.