Huawei AR1200 Series - WLAN Security Overview

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2.1 WLAN Security Overview

The wireless security feature provided by 802.11 authentication can defend against common

network attacks. However, 802.11 authentication cannot fully protect networks containing

sensitive data because a few hackers can still access WLANs. To prevent unauthorized user

access, a security mechanism more secure than 802.11 authentication is required. Link

authentication, WLAN service data security, and user access authentication are used to provide

higher security.

Link Authentication

Open system authentication and shared key authentication are used for link authentication.

l Open system authentication

Open system authentication is the default and simplest authentication mode. Users do not

need to be authenticated in this mode.

Figure 2-1 Open system authentication

Client AP

Authentication Request

Authentication Response

The open system authentication process is as follows:

1. A wireless client initiates an authentication request.

2. An access point (AP) confirms that the wireless client has passed link authentication

and responds to the wireless client with an authentication success message.

l Shared key authentication

Shared key authentication requires a wireless client and an AP to be configured with the

same shared key.

Figure 2-2 Shared key authentication

Client AP

Authentication Request

Authentication Response (Challenge)

Authentication (Encripted Challenge)

Authentication Response (Success)

Huawei AR1200 Series Enterprise Routers

Configuration Guide - WLAN 2 WLAN Security Configuration

Issue 03 (2012-01-06) Huawei Proprietary and Confidential

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