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802.11 Authentication
1) Authentication
request sent to AP
Client
3) Client encrypts
attempting
challenge text and
to connect
sends it back to AP
5) Client connects to network
Figure 4-2: 802.11 shared key authentication
Overview of WEP Parameters
Before enabling WEP on an 802.11 network, you must first consider what type of encryption you
require and the key size you want to use. Typically, there are three WEP Encryption options
available for 802.11 products:
1. Do Not Use WEP: The 802.11 network does not encrypt data. For authentication purposes, the
network uses Open System Authentication.
2. Use WEP for Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the data portion of every
packet it sends using a configured WEP Key. The receiving 802.11b device decrypts the data using
the same WEP Key. For authentication purposes, the 802.11b network uses Open System
Authentication.
3. Use WEP for Authentication and Encryption: A transmitting 802.11 device encrypts the data
portion of every packet it sends using a configured WEP Key. The receiving 802.11 device
decrypts the data using the same WEP Key. For authentication purposes, the 802.11 network uses
Shared Key Authentication.
Note: Some 802.11 access points also support Use WEP for Authentication Only (Shared Key
Authentication without data encryption).
Wireless Networking Basics
User Manual for the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter WG111
Shared Key Steps
2) AP sends challenge text
4) AP decrypts, and if correct,
authenticates client
202-10026-01
Access Point (AP)
IN TER N ET
W LA N
LO CA L
MODEL
FVM318
ProSafeWirelessVPN Security Firewall
Cable/DSL
LNK
100
PWR
TEST
ACT
Enable
LNK/ACT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Cable or
DLS modem
B-5
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