Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 465 Chapter 14 Wireless Network Security other packet using the same IV can be decrypted. There is a limit to the size of the IV, depending on the length of the WEP key. Therefore, it is possible for hackers to create tables of keys, which could be used to decrypt packets. Wireless Crackers A wireless cracker is a tool designed to break the encryption protections of a WLAN. An example of such a tool is Aircrack-ng. One of the primary features of this program is to crack passwords in the WPA handshake. Administrators can use programs, such as Aircrack-ng, to determine if the net- work’s encryption is strong or if a hacker could use the same tool to discover pass- words. Once this information is known, the appropriate steps can be taken to harden the wireless networks and access points. SUMMARY Wireless Network Security ■ ■ Wireless network security is the process of enabling security on a wireless local area network. It mainly focuses on protecting mobile and other wireless devices from attacks or interception of data. ■ ■ WLAN, or Wi-Fi, is a wireless networking technology that uses radio waves rather than copper-core or fiber-optic cable. ■ ■ Wi-Fi communication operates on the unlicensed spectrum as defined by IEEE 802.11 standards. These standards were the foundation of wireless security protocols developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. ■ ■ The Wi-Fi Alliance has had a number of iterations of wireless security protocols. These include WEP, WPS, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3. WPA2 and WPA3 are the two most common protocols today. Wireless Installations ■ ■ The first step in building a secure wireless environment begins with decisions regarding equipment, placement, encryption, and protocol usage. ■ ■ It is important to know the location of a network infrastructure, including access points and their broadcast reach in order to secure them effectively. ■ ■ Important steps taken with wireless installations include conducting a site survey, which is the process of planning, designing, and documenting a wireless network environment. Two types of surveys include a predictive site and Wi-Fi survey. ■ ■ WAP is a networking device that provides access to a connection between a wireless network and a physical cable-based network. The needs of a network help determine which type of WAP, band selection, and antennae type and placement to install. Wireless Connection Methods ■ ■ Cellular is a network technology that enables communication through mobile devices by using a system of stations and transceivers that make up a cellular network. Key elements of a cellular network are cellular generation, RF spectrum, and SIM cards.