[ILUG] wireless networking (compatible devices?)

[Darragh Bailey]

Quoting FRLinux <frlinux at gmail.com>:

> On 10/3/06, Darragh Bailey <felix at compsoc.nuigalway.ie> wrote:
>> So, I think that WPA-PSK and WPA are basically the same thing?
>
> Hello,
>
> No they aren't. I would suggest a bit of reading on the matter :
> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi_Protected_Access
>
> As you'll see, there is not only WPA-PSK, but also TKIP and AES. As
> you were saying, no matter which chipset is on each side, the
> important thing here is the protocol. If you can, try to go WPA2
> rather than WPA although WPA might just be safe for home usage. WPA2
> is the one introducing AES.
>
> So in short, WPA with PSK should get any wireless devices in your
> house working pretty flawlessly. Now, keep in mind that a strong
> passphrase non-dictionnary based is highly recommended. There are
> already a few kits out there to brute force WPA devices, it is more
> difficult but feasable.
>
> Steph

Ok, that explains alot. Looks like the specifications aren't being  
described very well.

WPA use an authenication server
PSK is another mode of WPA that justs uses a key instead of the server
WPA uses TKIP
WPA2 is the addition of AES as an encryption algorithm

Looks like the Linksys supports WPA2. (user guide)

Since the Netgear supports WPA2-PSK, it looks like the encryption  
algorithms will be fine, since I don't play to use an authenication  
server.


Still a little concerned whether the chipsets will work together though.

-- 
Darragh

"Nothing's foolproof to a sufficently talented fool"

----------------------------------------------------------------
Email service provided by the NUI, Galway Computer Society