Wireless Security Protocols

Is a wireless BAS (Building Automation System) really cheaper? the fact that you do not have the cost of wire and labor to pull it certainly impacts initial install cost but at what future cost (Not just money)? Wireless devices are generally more vulnerable to attacks compared to wired devices, primarily due to the nature of wireless communication. However, this vulnerability can be managed effectively with proper security measures. Reasons Wireless BAS Devices Are More Vulnerable Wireless signals can be intercepted more easily than wired signals. Attackers may use tools like packet sniffers to capture and analyze wireless traffic. Unauthorized devices can attempt to connect to the network, especially if weak authentication is in place. Many BAS devices come with default credentials or outdated security protocols, making them easier targets for attackers. Limited Resources for Encryption: Some wireless BAS devices, especially older or low-cost ones, may lack robust processing power to implement strong encryption and authentication protocols. Attackers can mimic legitimate devices or replay captured communication packets to disrupt or control the system. Wireless networks extend beyond physical barriers. An attacker only needs to be within the device's range to exploit it, unlike wired systems that require physical access. To reduce the vulnerabilities of wireless BAS devices, follow these best practices: Strong Encryption: Use protocols like WPA3 for Wi-Fi networks. Ensure all communication between devices and controllers is encrypted using TLS or similar secure protocols. Network Segmentation: Isolate wireless BAS devices on a dedicated, secure VLAN or subnet to limit potential damage if an attack occurs. Authentication and Authorization: Implement strong, unique passwords for all devices. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Regular Firmware Updates: Keep all devices updated with the latest firmware to patch known vulnerabilities. Wireless Intrusion Detection Systems (WIDS): Deploy WIDS to monitor for unauthorized devices and suspicious activity on the wireless network. Limit Wireless Range: Use directional antennas or adjust power settings to reduce the signal's range, minimizing the risk of external attacks. Conduct Regular Security Audits: Test for vulnerabilities periodically, including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning. While wireless BAS devices bring convenience and flexibility, prioritizing cybersecurity is critical to prevent potential breaches and ensure the integrity of the system.

Josh Schmelzle, Wi-Fi guru at HPE Aruba Networking, focuses on why the HPE Aruba Networking 730 Series Campus portfolio takes full advantage of security improvements with Wi-Fi 7 support. Key takeaways include: - Shuts down 25+ years of beacon frames being unauthenticated and unprotected, allowing exploitation of capabilities and operating parameters in beacon frames - Beacon protection enables clients with ability to verify the integrity of beacon frames - Clients can determine if they are connected to a legitimate network and detect active attacks - IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance now require certified Wi-Fi 7 APs and clients to support GCMP-256 - 19% of central managed networks now use WPA3 or Enhanced Open (WPA2 leads at 62%) - HPE Discover General Session Day 1 event network statistics show 5% of clients were Wi-Fi 7. Stay tuned for final stats and pool winners Plus, from my perspective, the new solution is integral to providing the zero-trust framework essential to bolstering wireless security in an era of increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity threats. New capabilities include wired encryption support through the extension of wired Ethernet protection with MACsec from the access switch to the AP. New personal wireless network features provide self-service personal device onboarding with segmentation to help ensure unique phase-shift keying (PSK) that helps reinforce login and device connectivity security. Such built-in security features fulfill user demand for robust encryption and authentication with WPA3 and Enhanced Open capabilities. Additional security benefits include deep packet inspection for granular, per application traffic enforcement, permitting IT teams to block, prioritize, and rate limit bandwidth as well as automatic role-based access throughout wireless and wired environments with Dynamic Segmentation features. Jeanna Blatt, APR Sarah Goodwin Eric Anderson Sandra Leong Lucinda R. Henry Phil Mottram Paul Jones David Stark Josh Schmelzle Tom Hollingsworth Stephen Foskett Jennifer Huber Corey Dirrig Rachael Fritz Keith Parsons Mark Houtz Steven Dickens Bill Ruff John Lusher Misty McPadden Hewlett Packard Enterprise #ArubaAtmoshere, part of #HPEDiscover, #TechFieldDay

It's time to move on from WPA2... You could be risking your whole network 🥲 I had the chance to chat with Lee, a wireless security expert from Redway Networks, and this is what he recommends for your wireless networks. WPA3: safer, smarter, and designed for today’s threats. But here’s the problem: many networks still rely on WPA2 because older devices can’t handle WPA3. Lee’s advice? - Create a separate SSID for those older devices. - Or better yet, retire them entirely. But it doesn’t stop there. Securing the infrastructure is just as critical: - Isolate guest users so they don’t poke around - Change vendor default passwords - Use VLANs to segment traffic The truth is, having the best tools isn’t enough. You have to make sure they're set up right. P.S. What’s your take on WPA3?