Encryption

• Private key


  A master key that is never shared
• Public key


  A key that can be shared
• Purpose of encryption


  To scramble data into cipher text to make it secure
• Service Set Identifier (SSID)

  A unique identifier for a wireless network
• Protecting wireless networks


  1. SSID can be set manually or hidden

  2. SSID can be protected with a password
• Encryption


  Scrambling data into cipher text using a master key created from the SSID and password
• Wireless networks broadcast data

  Data must be encrypted to be secure
• Wireless encryption


  1. Handshaking protocol used to ensure receiver has valid master key before transmission begins

  2. Protocols used include WEP, WPA, WPA2
• Although wired networks are naturally more secure, encryption is still available and often a sensible precaution