Wireless networks have been popular for over a decade now
and have quickly replaced or enhanced wired networks. The
ability to become more mobile due to the lack of wires has
been a big motivator in the adoption of the technology by businesses as well as end users.
Additionally the technology has made it possible to push networks into areas they have not
traditionally been able to go, including airports, hotels, coffee shops, libraries, and other
areas where the use of wires would be prohibited.
However, there are security problems with wireless networks. In this chapter we will
cover the various types of wireless networks and explore their vulnerabilities, security risks,
and how to penetrate them successfully.
What Is a Wireless Network?
The risks associated with wireless networks have increased, in some cases dramatically,
compared to traditional wired networks. Attacking parties have found wireless networks
much easier to target and penetrate than wired networks. As a result, many companies have
slowed their implementation or needlessly exposed themselves to security risks—needless
because they can have a wireless network and strong security as well.
Wi-Fi: An Overview
Wireless networks, or Wi-Fi, fall into the range of technologies covered under the IEEE 802.11
standard. The technology has been adapted for use by everything from laptops and personal
computers to smartphones and videogame consoles. Through the use of wireless technology,
users can connect to the Internet and share resources in ways that weren’t possible in the past.
However, the technology for all its convenience and flexibility does have its drawbacks:
■ There’s a much more dramatic decrease in bandwidth than with wired networks since
more devices are connected at once.■ You must invest in new network cards and infrastructure. However, it is worth noting
that in today’s world new network cards and infrastructure are more likely than not to
have wireless networking built in.■ Interference is an issue because many other electronic devices and technologies operate
on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi.■ The range of wireless networking can be less than advertised and in most cases is about
half of the distance promised.■ Terrain can slow down or impede wireless signals.