Which standard governs authenticating and encrypting access to Wi‑Fi networks?

Which standard governs authenticating and encrypting access to Wi‑Fi networks?

• A. WEP
• B. WPA
• C. TKIP
• D. SAE

Answer: (B)

Wi‑Fi security standards define how devices prove they are allowed to join and how their traffic is protected over the wireless link. WEP is an older, now insecure scheme. WPA was introduced to fix WEP’s weaknesses by strengthening authentication and encryption, using TKIP for improved key management and integrity, with per-packet keys. The broader standard that governs this process of authenticating access and encrypting traffic on Wi‑Fi networks is WPA. TKIP is a cryptographic mechanism used within WPA, not the overarching standard itself, and SAE is a newer authentication method used with WPA3. In this context, WPA best captures the standard that governs both authentication and encryption for Wi‑Fi access.

Wi‑Fi security standards define how devices prove they are allowed to join and how their traffic is protected over the wireless link. WEP is an older, now insecure scheme. WPA was introduced to fix WEP’s weaknesses by strengthening authentication and encryption, using TKIP for improved key management and integrity, with per-packet keys. The broader standard that governs this process of authenticating access and encrypting traffic on Wi‑Fi networks is WPA. TKIP is a cryptographic mechanism used within WPA, not the overarching standard itself, and SAE is a newer authentication method used with WPA3. In this context, WPA best captures the standard that governs both authentication and encryption for Wi‑Fi access.