In earlier editions of this series, I have shown how to crack different Wi-Fi encryption methods.
Now that we’ve learned to assess the security vulnerabilities of all standard wireless encryptions (WEP/WPA/WPA2), it becomes simpler to protect our networks against these vulnerabilities, since we understand the potential exploits hackers can use to break these encryptions.
Let’s examine each type of encryption in turn:
WEP: WEP is an outdated encryption protocol that is highly vulnerable. We have discovered numerous methods to breach this encryption, regardless of password strength or whether the network is active. These breaches are feasible due to inherent weaknesses in how WEP is structured, which we’ve covered in our discussions. Some techniques can even decrypt the network key within minutes.
WPA/WPA2: WPA and WPA2 are quite similar, differing primarily in the encryption algorithm used, but their functionalities are essentially the same. There are two main ways to compromise WPA/WPA2:
- If the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) feature is active, it significantly raises the risk of key compromise, regardless of its complexity. This vulnerability stems from the WPS feature allowing a connection via a simple button press and an eight-digit PIN, which hackers can brute force relatively quickly (typically within 10 hours). Once they ascertain the correct PIN, they can employ a tool like Reaver to backtrack the PIN and uncover the encryption key. This risk is not due to a flaw in WPA/WPA2 itself but in the WPS feature that can be enabled on routers using these protocols.
- Without WPS, the only other method to crack WPA/WPA2 is through a dictionary attack, where hackers compare a list of potential passwords against a captured network handshake file. If the network’s password isn’t included in the hacker’s dictionary, the password remains secure.
Conclusion:
- Avoid using WEP encryption, as it is extremely susceptible to hacking, regardless of password complexity or network activity.
- Opt for WPA2 encryption with a complex password, incorporating a mix of lowercase and uppercase letters, symbols, and numbers to enhance security.
- Disable the WPS feature, as it introduces a significant security loophole that can allow hackers to easily brute force your secure WPA2 key.
