Overview of WLAN Security

Definition

WLAN security involves the following concepts:

Perimeter security: An 802.11 network is subject to threats from unauthorized APs and users, ad-hoc networks, and denial of service (DoS) attacks. A wireless intrusion detection system (WIDS) can detect unauthorized users and APs. A wireless intrusion prevention system (WIPS) can protect an enterprise network against unauthorized access from wireless networks.
User access security: Link authentication, access authentication, and data encryption are used to ensure validity and security of user access on wireless networks.
Service security: This feature protects service data of authorized user from being intercepted by unauthorized users during transmission.

Purpose

WLAN technology uses radio signals to transmit service data, meaning that service data can easily be intercepted or tampered by attackers when being transmitted on the open wireless channels. Ensuring WLAN security is crucial to building safe and effective wireless networks.

WLAN technology can provide the following mechanisms to guarantee data security for wireless users:

WIDS and WIPS mechanisms that detect and defend against intrusion from unauthorized users
Security policies for wireless users, including link authentication, access authentication, and data encryption
Security mechanisms for wireless services.