Chapter 9 Encryption; Encryption Types Supported In Dell Instant; Wep; Tkip - Dell PowerConnect W-IAP175P User Manual

Encryption Types Supported in Dell Instant

Encryption is the process of converting data into an undecipherable format or code when it is transmitted on a
network. Encryption prevents unauthorized use of the data. The following encryption types are supported in Dell
Instant:

WEP

Though WEP is an authentication method, it is also an encryption algorithm where all users typically share the
same key. WEP is easily broken with automated tools, and should be considered no more secure than an open
network. It is recommended against deploying WEP encryption. Organizations that use WEP are strongly
encouraged to move to Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption.

TKIP

TKIP uses the same encryption algorithm as WEP, but TKIP is much more secure and has an additional message
integrity check (MIC). Recently some cracks have begun to appear in the TKIP encryption methods. It is
recommended that all users migrate from TKIP to AES as soon as possible.

AES

The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption algorithm is now widely supported and is the
recommended encryption type for all wireless networks that contain any confidential data. AES in Wi-Fi
leverages 802.1X or PSKs to generate per station keys for all devices. AES provides a high level of security, similar
to what is used by IP Security (IPsec) clients. It is recommended that all devices be upgraded or replaced so that
they are capable of AES encryption.
NOTE: WEP and TKIP are limited to WLAN connection speed of 54 Mbps. For 802.11n connection only AES encryption is supported.

Encryption Recommendations

Recommendations for encryption on Wi-Fi networks are as follows:
WEP -- Not recommended

TKIP -- Not recommended

AES -- Recommended for all deployments

Dell PowerConnect W-Series Instant Access Point 6.1.2.3-2.0.0.0 | User Guide
Chapter 9
Encryption
Encryption | 97