Certification - May 2008 - (Page 34) TECHNIQUES Securing Your Wireless Access Network BEN ROTHKE When it comes to cutting the network cord and going wireless, people often fail to consider the security implications. Wireless is all about convenience, as it untethers users from the shackles of the Ethernet cable. But first-time users often open themselves up to the myriad security issues that surround wireless. Many people are oblivious to computer security in general. But the protections that can keep users safe in the wired network world, regardless of their level of awareness, fall away in the wireless world. At its essence, wireless networking is just another form of radio communication. Since wireless networks broadcast radio frequencies, anyone with a wireless receiver can hear all communications on the network. With that, wireless is just as vulnerable to eavesdropping, traffic injection, spoofing and other forms as attack as other radio communication. Wireless is no different from a baby monitor, which also operates at a 2.4 GHz frequency. In addition, the inherent flexibility of wireless to network changes is helpful. The low cost of entry is one of the main benefits of wireless. But just as it is inexpensive for organizations to deploy wireless, it corresponds that inexpensive wireless equipment also makes it easier for hackers to mount an attack against a wireless network. Wireless Is Ubiquitous There is hardly an industry where wireless is not in active use. From retail and manufacturing to hospitals, Wireless Beneļ¬ts Despite these security concerns, there are numerous benefits to wireless. The most obvious of these is its mobility. Being constantly tethered to a workstation or laptop often is a hindrance to productivity. The improved employee effectiveness and efficiency that comes with the openness of a wireless network is one reason that wireless voice and data networks are one of the fastest growing and most dynamic areas in the technology industry today. Businesses, municipalities, home users and others are moving to wireless in droves. Wireless also can offer significant cost savings, while increasing the availability of information on demand. 34 CERTIFICATION MAGAZINE May 2008
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