In response to the weaknesses presented by WEP, Wifi Alliance created a more secure way of protecting wireless networks, Wifi Protected Access or WPA. While WPA is compatible with all wireless NICs, it may not work with the older, first generation access points.

WPA uses a 128-bit key and an initialization vector (IV) which is 48-bits long. In addition, WPA wireless security uses the so-called Temporary Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP), which makes it more difficult for hackers to crack the key. TKIP alters the key actively while the system is in use. Wireless security WPA also offers better payload integrity. Instead of the CRC used in WEP, it uses the message authentication code (MAC) or message integrity code (MIC) which can also prevent execution of replay attacks. WPA wireless security is not often the default choice of routers. Thus, WPA should be manually enabled.

Wifi Protected Access 2 (WPA2)

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WPA2 is an enhanced version of WPA that offers stronger network access control and data protection. Major software companies such as Microsoft and Apple Computer adopted this security mechanism in their operating systems. The support for WPA2 in Windows XP was officially released on May 1, 2005. From March 13, 2006, every device wishing to be Wifi certified needs to be certified for WPA2 as well.

For existing wireless network cards, driver upgrade may be needed in order to support WPA2. The passphrase the user needs to access the network is 8 to 63 characters long providing better security. The longer the passphrase, the more combinations required should a hacker be guessing the code.

Understanding IEEE 802.1X

IEEE has set some standards for Network Access Control which are port-based. Those wishing to connect to a certain local area network port must be authenticated based on the IEEE 802.1X. This is especially applicable to wireless networks. Anyone can detect a wireless access point, but not all are allowed to get in to the network because it is a closed access point. Only those that can be authenticated successfully will be given access to the wireless network. The IEEE 802.1X authentication server is being implemented by the WPA/WPA2 which is an enhancement from the Wired Equivalent Privacy security mechanism. The use of this security scheme is recommended for large companies requiring a strong and reliable protection from outsiders.

With the continuous advancement of networking technology, no one can really tell the extent of a professional hacker's ability. With the nature of wireless networks, it is indeed a requirement to have some sort of wifi security software. Though WPA or WPA2 offers the best security, using even just a WEP key is still better than no security at all. Wireless network security must definitely be implemented by any wireless networks.

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Information on WPA Wireless Security and Wifi Protected Access

Wifi Protected Access 2 (WPA2)

Understanding IEEE 802.1X

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