In: Computer Science
Why is security so important to wireless networks? Give two
examples of defense measures that should be taken to enhance
wireless security.
Ans.:
The wireless network uses the frequency waves as a medium of communication. Also, most of the devices in today's period are connected to each other through this medium. This makes the devices open to data breaches and infiltration. The most common types of attacks that occur on wireless networks are Denial of Service (DoS), Masquerade, Release or modification of messages, Man in the middle attacks, etc.. These types of attacks occur without any signs and are hidden until victim notices the data breach in his system. Protection from these types of attacks make Security of prime importance.
In order to enhance the wireless security, there are many defence measure present to encrypt the information.
Measures like RSA, SHA256, Symmetric Cryptography, Diffie Hellman Key Exchange, Intrusion Detection System, Intrusion Prevention System, etc. are present.
Intrusion Detection system is a defencive measure as it works on detecting the presence of intruders in the network.This system alerts the system whenever there is intruder detected in the system. This makes sure that there is tight defence on the inside of network.
Intrusion Prevention System is one more defensive measure that prevents and takes appropriate measure against the intruder. This handles the defence on the boundary of the wireless network.
RSA algorithm is widely know for making sure that data transmission is secure and confidential. On the wireless network, the data transmission occurs in order for devices to complete the functions. Using the RSA algorithm to secure the transmission will greatly enhance the wireless security.
Diffie Hellman Key exchange is used to exchange the keys that are used to decipher the data being transmitted. This happens on the public channel. This mechanism will enhance the wireless security as the network is always public and is always availble to anyone connected to the network.
These are the examples that should be taken in order to enhance the security of the wireless network.