4 Types of Wireless Security, and How To Stay Secure

Most wireless networks rely on one of four security protocols: WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3. Developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance, these protocols help to protect your:

• Data
• Devices
• Wireless networks

In this post, we’ll look at what sets them apart and which one you should choose to stay secure.

What Is Wireless Security?

Wireless security ensures that only trusted users connect to a wireless network, and prevents threat actors from infiltrating, intercepting, or disrupting the flow of sensitive data. 

We can break down wireless security protocols into four key features: 

1. Encryption: Wireless security protocols use encryption standards to scramble data, ensuring that only authorized users (with the right decryption key) can read it. 
2. Authentication: Wireless security protocols authenticate users and devices trying to connect to the network, often through passwords or other identity verification methods. 
3. Access control: While authentication controls entry into the network, access control manages what users can do once they’re inside, based on their roles and permissions. This helps segment users away from sensitive resources and reduces the attack surface in case of a breach.
4. Monitoring: Modern wireless security protocols can integrate with intrusion detection systems to monitor the network for suspicious activity and enforce least privilege access, shutting down threats before they escalate. 

What is The Wi-Fi Alliance?

Founded in 1999, the Wi-Fi Alliance is a non-profit organization made up of several companies worldwide. 

As the owner of the Wi-Fi trademark, the Wi-Fi Alliance focuses on developing wireless security standards and certifying Wi-Fi enabled products.

4 Most Common Types of Wireless Security Protocols

There are four wireless security protocols, all developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance, that you’ll usually find being used to secure Wi-Fi networks today:

#1. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) 

• Released: 1997
• Strength level: Very weak (not recommended)
• Encryption: RC4 

WEP was the first protocol developed for Wi-Fi networks, designed to offer the same level of security as wired networks through encryption. Now, however, WEP is considered outdated and vulnerable to attack due to flaws in its static RC4 encryption method. 

It can be easily decrypted using modern tools and has weaknesses with its shared key authentication mechanism. 

#2. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)

• Released: 2003
• Strength: Weak (not recommended)
• Encryption: Temporal Key Integrity Protocol, 128-bit 

WPA is stronger than WEP, with its 128-bit encryption standard known as Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP), which dynamically changes the encryption key. 

It offers two modes: 

• WPA-Personal for home networks
• WPA-Enterprise for businesses

TKIP is no longer secure, however, and WPA is vulnerable to attacks such as spoofing and session hijacking.

#3. Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2)

• Released: 2004
• Strength: Strong
• Encryption: Advanced Encryption Standard, 128-bit

In 2006, the Wi-Fi Alliance made WPA2 mandatory for all certified devices, and it remains the most common wireless security protocol today. WPA2 offers better protection than both WEP and WPA, and once set up, requires very little administration. 

However, chinks in WPA2’s armor have been exposed by methods such as the key reinstallation attack (KRACK). 

Plus, as cyberattacks grow more sophisticated in recent years and networks become more complicated – with people working remotely across hybrid cloud environments using multiple devices – the Wi-Fi Alliance released a new protocol to keep pace.

#4. Wi-Fi Protected Access III (WPA3)

• Released: 2018
• Strength: Very strong
• Encryption: Individualized data encryption, 192-bit 

WPA3 is the latest and most secure wireless security protocol, featuring individualized data encryption for greater privacy on open networks and Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE) to guard against brute-force attacks. 

WPA3 offers personal and enterprise modes, along with a Wi-Fi Enhanced Open mode for networks without passwords. The Easy Connect feature also makes it simple to connect devices, if they’re compatible. While WPA3 is recommended for all new networks, it hasn’t been widely adopted yet, and many devices still don’t support it.

Which Wireless Security Protocol Should You Choose?

Here’s which wireless security protocols to choose based on your needs:

• Use WPA3: If your devices support WPA3, this should be your top choice due to its advanced security features. 
• Use WPA2: If WPA3 is not an option, WPA2 is still a solid choice and is compatible with most devices. 
• Avoid WEP and WPA: These protocols are outdated and vulnerable—they should only be used if no other options are available. It’s also best practice to replace any firmware using these protocols. 

Common Wi-Fi Security Risks 

Wireless security protocols aren’t foolproof. Here are some common Wi-Fi security risks to watch out for:

• Weak Passwords: Using default or weak passwords makes it easy for attackers to gain access to your network and devices.
• Rogue Access Points: Unauthorized devices—installed without permission from an admin—can be used to exploit the network.
• Outdated Firmware/Software: Routers, access points, and software that haven’t been updated may have vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.
• Packet Sniffing: If your network uses weak encryption (like WEP), attackers can use packet sniffing tools to analyze the traffic and capture sensitive data.
• Man-in-the-Middle Attack: Attackers intercept the data transmitted between your device and the Wi-Fi network, often by creating Evil Twins—malicious networks and hotpots designed to trick users into connecting. 
• Shoulder Surfing: If you’re accessing a wireless network in public, such as at the local coffee shop or by a window, attackers can look over your shoulder to see what credentials you’re typing in and use them to gain unauthorized access. 
• Insider Threats: Employees or contractors with authorized access to the Wi-Fi network can sabotage it from within.
• Unsecured Networks: If your Wi-Fi network is not secured with a password and/or strong encryption standards, it could be susceptible to any of the attacks listed above, and more.

How To Improve Your Wireless Security Posture 

Here’s how to improve your wireless security posture.

Network Security

• Use WPA3 encryption, where possible, to reduce the risk of these attacks and ensure that your devices only connect to trusted networks.
• Enable your router’s firewall to add an extra layer of security.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and gain secure, remote access to a network.
• Filter MAC addresses to make sure only trusted devices can connect to your network.
• Turn off remote admin access to your Wi-Fi router.

Access Control

• Use Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) services to restrict network access to authorized users (with the right certificates) only.
• Segment users on your network (such as employees and third parties) to reduce your attack surface.
• Disable guest access on your Wi-Fi network, where possible.
• Enable strong authentication mechanisms (such as multi-factor authentication) to protect your network’s login box.

Password Management

• Create complex Wi-Fi passwords and update them regularly.
• Change your default SSID and use personalized credentials to lower the risk of brute force attacks.

Regular Maintenance

• Regularly update network hardware and software (particularly security patches).
• Update your firmware and software regularly.
• Perform regular security assessments and audits.
• Train employees on common Wi-Fi security risks and best practices.

Maximize Network Security with Check Point’s SASE

While wireless security protocols are essential, they may not be enough on their own. Protecting your network from emerging threats requires advanced solutions. Check Point’s SASE provides fast and reliable access to all of your on-prem and cloud resources while safeguarding your network with zero trust access, advanced threat prevention, AI-powered security, and more. 

Check Point’s SASE makes it easy to protect your most critical assets and unlock superior internet security performance.

Book a free demo today to find out more.