"Wi-Fi Protected Access [WPA] a far stronger security solution than WEP"
The Wi-Fi Alliance states in their white paper "Wi-Fi Protected Access for the Home , " "While no security mechanism cab be considered 'absolutely secure,' the protection given by Wi-Fi Protected Access in PSK mode is strong enough to prevent most attacks, even sophisticated ones. As such, Wi-Fi Protected Access offers a pragmatic, economical security mechanism for most home users." The importance of WLAN security cannot be emphasized more for even a home office or small office configuration.Key features to choose:
The first step for either a WLAN upgrade or deploying an entirely new network is to choose the features you need and require for your home or small office network.
- Access Point
- Access Point/Router
- Bridging functions
- PoE
- VPN Pass-through
- Gaming traffic
- Detachable antenna
- Radius
- Firewall
- Wireless bands(a, b, or g)
The Access Point is the key item for the home or small office environment. When there is already a router and switch configured in the network, then all you need is the access point to go wireless. Access Point/Router is a AP with built-in router. Connect a CAT5 cable from a DSL or cable modem to the access point/router and you are ready to connect one or more PCs for your home or small office network. Bridging is the feature to use when you want to connect two LANs together or maybe a PC that is off in the back corner of the property. PoE or Power over Ethernet is useful for powering an AP when there is no AC power source nearby or you wish to see no dangling cables other than the CAT5 cable. VPN pass-through is an AP feature requirement when you need to connect back your work enterprise network when doing work from home. Gaming traffic is an AP feature for WLAN users that play computer games with other users across the internet. Low latency is a key element. Detachable antenna is important when you want to spread the RF signal more in one direction or perhaps to a location a mile away (need clear line-of-sight.) Radius (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) along with a chosen EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) PEAP, TTLS, or TLS wouldn't normally be used for the home, but a small office with 5 or more users may find that a RADIUS server a useful feature. The firewall is an important feature as this protects the user network from outside probing and unwanted connections. Wireless bands (a, b, or g) are available as user choice. 802.11g is the most popular along with backward 802.11b. 802.11a in the 5 GHz band may be useful when there are several other WLANs in a confined area. Companies such as Linksys. Netgear, and D-Link provide wireless LAN solutions for the home.
More Information: Check out the Wi-Fi Alliance white papers and and other valuable information on wireless LANs.
