Security strategies for wireless networks
Secure with WPA2
As of this writing, wireless networks based on WPA2 are regarded as mostly secure. Dictionary attacks on the pre-shared key are the most promising vector – assuming the attacker has enough time and computer power. Theoretically, the broadcast and multicast keys represent another vulnerability. All network nodes need to know them, and an attacker who discovers one of the keys can at least sniff the key exchange between the access point and the workstation.
Thanks to the WPA2 standard's security design, modern wireless networks now have fairly effective security. The biggest factor of uncertainty is with the user. Today, wherever an inquisitive intruder gains access to a modern WLAN infrastructure and applies enough criminal energy to access the network and cause damage, a careless access point configuration is usually the root cause. So take some time to consider your WLAN router's individual settings carefully (Figure 2).
If you want to reduce the residual risk even further, you can add software-based protection for the WLAN. If you use a tunnel, such as a VPN with IPSec, you can raise the barrier even for experienced hackers. As is often the case, the free Linux operating system, with its many built-in security components, is a perfect choice for eliminating residual risk.
« Previous 1 2
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
US / Canada
UK / Australia
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Halcyon Creates Anti-Ransomware Protection for Linux
As more Linux systems are targeted by ransomware, Halcyon is stepping up its protection.
-
Valve and Arch Linux Announce Collaboration
Valve and Arch have come together for two projects that will have a serious impact on the Linux distribution.
-
Hacker Successfully Runs Linux on a CPU from the Early ‘70s
From the office of "Look what I can do," Dmitry Grinberg was able to get Linux running on a processor that was created in 1971.
-
OSI and LPI Form Strategic Alliance
With a goal of strengthening Linux and open source communities, this new alliance aims to nurture the growth of more highly skilled professionals.
-
Fedora 41 Beta Available with Some Interesting Additions
If you're a Fedora fan, you'll be excited to hear the beta version of the latest release is now available for testing and includes plenty of updates.
-
AlmaLinux Unveils New Hardware Certification Process
The AlmaLinux Hardware Certification Program run by the Certification Special Interest Group (SIG) aims to ensure seamless compatibility between AlmaLinux and a wide range of hardware configurations.
-
Wind River Introduces eLxr Pro Linux Solution
eLxr Pro offers an end-to-end Linux solution backed by expert commercial support.
-
Juno Tab 3 Launches with Ubuntu 24.04
Anyone looking for a full-blown Linux tablet need look no further. Juno has released the Tab 3.
-
New KDE Slimbook Plasma Available for Preorder
Powered by an AMD Ryzen CPU, the latest KDE Slimbook laptop is powerful enough for local AI tasks.
-
Rhino Linux Announces Latest "Quick Update"
If you prefer your Linux distribution to be of the rolling type, Rhino Linux delivers a beautiful and reliable experience.