What is 802.1x Authentication? | X-Micro Tech IEEE 802.11b instruction

USER’S MANUAL OF X-MICRO WLAN 11b BROADBAND ROUTER	Version: 2.6

authentication server, typically one that supports RADIUS and the selected EAP authentication protocol, will be added to the network.

4.16 What is 802.1x Authentication?

802.1x is a framework for authenticated MAC-level access control, defines Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) over LANs (WAPOL). The standard encapsulates and leverages much of EAP, which was defined for dial-up authentication with Point-to-Point Protocol in RFC 2284.

Beyond encapsulating EAP packets, the 802.1x standard also defines EAPOL messages that convey the shared key information critical for wireless security.

4.17 What is Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP)?

The Temporal Key Integrity Protocol, pronounced tee-kip, is part of the IEEE 802.11i encryption standard for wireless LANs. TKIP is the next generation of WEP, the Wired Equivalency Protocol, which is used to secure 802.11 wireless LANs. TKIP provides per-packet key mixing, a message integrity check and a re-keying mechanism, thus fixing the flaws of WEP.

4.18 What is Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)?

Security issues are a major concern for wireless LANs, AES is the U.S. government’s next-generation cryptography algorithm, which will replace DES and 3DES.

4.19 What is Inter-Access Point Protocol (IAPP)?

The IEEE 802.11f Inter-Access Point Protocol (IAPP) supports Access Point Vendor interoperability, enabling roaming of 802.11 Stations within IP subnet.

IAPP defines messages and data to be exchanged between Access Points and between the IAPP and high layer management entities to support roaming. The IAPP protocol uses TCP for inter-Access Point communication and UDP for RADIUS request/response exchanges. It also uses Layer 2 frames to update the forwarding tables of Layer 2 devices.

4.20 What is Wireless Distribution System (WDS)?

The Wireless Distribution System feature allows WLAN AP to talk directly to other APs via wireless channel, like the wireless bridge or repeater service.

IEEE 802.11b specifications

X-Micro Tech's IEEE 802.11b standard represents a significant advancement in wireless networking technology, forming part of the IEEE 802.11 family designated for wireless local area networks (WLAN). Introduced in the late 1990s, the 802.11b standard was a precursor to modern wireless technologies, bringing considerable improvements in speed, range, and reliability.

One of the main features of IEEE 802.11b is its data transmission capability, achieving speeds of up to 11 Mbps. While this may seem modest by today's standards, it was a groundbreaking advancement that allowed users to access the internet and share files wirelessly at previously unattainable speeds. Additionally, 802.11b supports lower data rates—5.5 Mbps and 2 Mbps—which enhance reliability and range, allowing devices further from the access point to maintain connections.

The technology operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, a characteristic that facilitates better penetration through walls and physical barriers. However, this frequency band is also shared with other appliances, such as microwaves and Bluetooth devices, which can lead to interference. Despite this, the standard incorporates a robust form of modulation, specifically complementary code keying (CCK), which enhances its resilience against such interference.

Another significant aspect of IEEE 802.11b is its capacity for extended range. Under optimal conditions, devices can communicate over distances of up to 300 feet indoors and up to 1,000 feet outdoors. This extended range was particularly useful in homes and offices, promoting seamless integration of devices into networks without the cumbersome wiring typically associated with traditional networking.

Security has always been a critical concern in wireless communications. IEEE 802.11b introduced Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) for basic data protection. However, limitations in WEP led to the development of more secure protocols such as WPA and WPA2 in later iterations of wireless standards.

In summary, X-Micro Tech's IEEE 802.11b standard laid the groundwork for modern wireless networking. Its key features, such as a maximum data rate of 11 Mbps, compatibility with the 2.4 GHz frequency band, and extended range capabilities, revolutionized network access in homes and businesses. Even as technology has evolved, the impact of 802.11b can still be felt, serving as a building block for subsequent wireless advancements, making it a significant milestone in the history of networking technology.