Wireless Network Security

Wireless Network Security is a critical discipline within cybersecurity focused on protecting computer networks and the data they transmit from unauthorized access and threats when communication occurs over radio waves. Unlike wired networks, the broadcast nature of wireless signals, such as those used in Wi-Fi, makes them inherently more susceptible to eavesdropping and intrusion. The primary goals are to ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and availability by implementing security measures such as strong encryption protocols (e.g., WPA3), robust user authentication, secure access point configuration, and wireless intrusion prevention systems (WIPS).

1. Introduction to Wireless Network Security
   1. Overview of Wireless Network Security
      1. Definition and Scope
      2. Importance in Modern Networks
      3. Comparison with Wired Network Security
      4. Current Threat Landscape
   2. Core Concepts of Wireless Networking
      1. Radio Frequency Fundamentals
         1. Electromagnetic Spectrum Overview
         2. Frequency Bands Used in Wi-Fi
            1. 2.4 GHz Band Characteristics
            2. 5 GHz Band Characteristics
            3. 6 GHz Band Characteristics
         3. Spectrum and Channels
            1. Channel Allocation Principles
            2. Channel Overlap and Interference
            3. Channel Width Considerations
         4. Signal Propagation and Attenuation
            1. Free Space Path Loss
            2. Multipath and Fading Effects
            3. Obstacles and Environmental Factors
            4. Indoor vs Outdoor Propagation
         5. Signal-to-Noise Ratio
            1. SNR Impact on Performance
            2. Measuring SNR
            3. Optimizing SNR
      2. IEEE 802.11 Standards Evolution
         1. Legacy Standards
            1. 802.11a Features and Security
            2. 802.11b Features and Security
            3. 802.11g Features and Security
            4. 802.11n Features and Security
         2. Modern Standards
            1. 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5)
               1. Channel Bonding
               2. MU-MIMO Technology
               3. Security Enhancements
            2. 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6/6E)
               1. OFDMA Technology
               2. Target Wake Time
               3. 6 GHz Expansion
               4. Security Improvements
            3. 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7)
               1. Key Enhancements
               2. Security Features
      3. Wireless Network Components
         1. Access Points
            1. Functions and Roles
            2. Standalone Access Points
            3. Controller-Based Access Points
            4. Cloud-Managed Access Points
         2. Wireless Clients
            1. Device Types and Categories
            2. Client Capabilities Assessment
            3. Client Security Features
         3. Wireless LAN Controllers
            1. Centralized Management Functions
            2. Security Policy Enforcement
            3. Configuration Management
         4. Service Set Identifiers
            1. SSID Broadcasting Concepts
            2. Hidden SSIDs
            3. Multiple SSID Implementation
   3. Fundamental Security Principles
      1. The CIA Triad
         1. Confidentiality in Wireless Networks
            1. Encryption Requirements
            2. Data Protection Methods
         2. Integrity in Wireless Networks
            1. Message Integrity Checks
            2. Data Validation Techniques
         3. Availability in Wireless Networks
            1. Network Uptime Requirements
            2. Redundancy and Failover
      2. Additional Security Principles
         1. Non-repudiation
            1. Digital Signatures
            2. Logging and Auditing
         2. Authentication Principles
            1. User Authentication Methods
            2. Device Authentication
         3. Authorization Mechanisms
            1. Access Control Models
            2. Permission Management
   4. Inherent Wireless Security Challenges
      1. Broadcast Nature of RF Signals
         1. Open Transmission Risks
         2. Eavesdropping Potential
         3. Signal Interception Methods
      2. Physical vs Logical Boundaries
         1. Signal Leakage Beyond Premises
         2. Network Perimeter Challenges
         3. Coverage Area Control
      3. Mobility and Dynamic Connections
         1. Roaming Security Challenges
         2. Dynamic IP Assignment
         3. Connection State Management