Network Access And Data Security; Network Name (Ssid) - HP jetdirect 175x Administrator's Manual

Network Access and Data Security

Unlike a wired network which requires a physical connection,
wireless networks can be accessed by devices and computers that
are in range of the network's radio signals. It is not difficult for an
intruder to eavesdrop on wireless network traffic to gain access to
the network or observe network data.
To inhibit unauthorized access, authentication and data encryption
options for wireless networking are available.
G Authentication is a process in which devices must validate their
identity before accessing or communicating on a network.
G Encryption provides data privacy by modifying data frame bits
before transmission, and restoring data frame bits when
received. The HP Jetdirect wireless print server supports
several authentication options and encryption.

Network Name (SSID)

Wireless devices are configured with the name of the network to
which they will connect. The Network Name is also called the SSID
(Service Set Identifier) and identifies the ESS (Extended Service
Set) that is normally associated with larger Infrastructure Mode
networks.
The Network Name/SSID should not be considered a security
feature because it is usually easily identified. However, as a
network administration or management feature, it does provide
basic network access control.
HP Jetdirect print servers support a broadcast SSID, sometimes
called a zero-length or "blank" SSID. If a blank SSID is configured
in Infrastructure mode, the print server will attempt to associate
with the network SSIDs detected, starting with the strongest
signal. Successful association will be based on encryption and
authentication settings.
ENWW
HP Jetdirect 802.11b Wireless Print Servers 257