When Wireshark starts, the active interface is the default one

(EditPreferencesCaptureDefault Interface). During Wireshark usage, the active interface is the last one used for packet capture.

Channel offset for AirPcap N

Edit the decryption keys list

Change the adapter’s

Set the adapter to capture

Change the advanced settings

channel while it’s

or drop packets with

of the AirPcap Adapter

capturing

wrong FCS

 

Enable/disable WEP decryption in the driver or in Wireshark

 

 

Figure 6: The Wireshark Wireless Toolbar

 

The Wireless toolbar has the following controls:

 

802.11 Channel: allows the user to change the channel on which

 

 

the current AirPcap adapter captures. The channel can be changed

 

 

at any time, even while Wireshark is capturing.

 

Offset: for AirPcap N, allows the user to set an extension, or

 

 

“wide” channel.

 

 

 

Tip:

When real-time packet updates are enabled

 

(EditPreferencesCaptureUpdate list of packets in real time),

 

switching from channel to channel allows you to see which

 

channels have traffic and which ones are unused.

 

 

 

 

 

FCS Filter: allows the user to select which packets the current

 

 

AirPcap adapter should capture: all the packets, only packets with

 

 

a valid FCS, or only packets with an invalid FCS. This feature can

 

 

be used to get a quick check on the quality of the transmission on

 

 

the channel and/or the quality of the adapter’s reception.

AirPcap User’s Guide

15

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Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters manual Wireless toolbar has the following controls

AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters specifications

Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters are essential tools for network professionals aiming to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot wireless networks. These innovative devices enable packet capture and analysis over 802.11 wireless networks, providing insights that are crucial for maintaining network integrity and performance.

One of the main features of AirPcap adapters is their ability to capture raw 802.11 packets in real time, including management, control, and data frames. This capability allows for a comprehensive view of wireless communications, assisting engineers in identifying issues like signal interference, unauthorized access points, and potential security breaches.

Another significant characteristic is the support for both 802.11a/b/g/n standards. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that users can effectively analyze traffic across various network types, regardless of the generation of equipment being utilized. Additionally, AirPcap adapters are equipped with advanced features like packet injection, which is beneficial for testing network robustness and security defenses.

The wireless capture adapters are often praised for their seamless integration with popular analysis tools such as Wireshark. This combination provides users with a powerful interface for performing in-depth packet analysis, enabling the decoding of complex protocols and offering visualizations that aid in understanding network behaviors.

For ease of use, AirPcap adapters come equipped with a compact design and user-friendly software. They can be connected to laptops or portable devices, making them ideal for field use. Their portability ensures that field technicians or network analysts can perform assessments in various environments without the need for extensive setup or configurations.

Security is another critical aspect where AirPcap shines. These adapters allow for the capture of encrypted packets, provided the user has the appropriate decryption keys. This feature is particularly valuable for troubleshooting security protocols and ensuring that data transmitted over the network is secure.

In conclusion, Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters are versatile and powerful tools for any network engineer or security professional. With their ability to capture and analyze a wide range of wireless traffic, their compatibility with industry-standard tools, and their advanced features, AirPcap adapters are indispensable in today's increasingly wireless world. Whether used for routine monitoring, troubleshooting, or security assessments, these adapters offer a robust solution for wireless network management.