Wi-Fi security standard to require new hardware
In June the IEEE is expected to finally ratify the 802.11i security standard that uses for the first time AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) technology, a powerful 128-bit encryption technology. While AES, a standard currently approved for government use, FIPS 140-2, (Federal Information Processing) will give the enterprise the kind of strong encryption and sophisticated ciphers it has been asking for, it will also require new access cards and in many cases new APs (access points), according to Frank Hanzlik, managing director of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
Current processors in Wi-Fi cards and in many APs are not powerful enough to encrypt and decrypt 128-bit ciphers.
"Because WPA2 uses AES at its core, it requires an upgrade to support the co-processing needed," Hanzlik said.
WPA2 is the name the Wi-Fi Alliance has chosen to identify IEEE 802.11i standard.
A spokesperson for Cisco, one of the largest providers of enterprise APs, said AES is supported in hardware on the IEEE 802.11g versions of AP models 1100, 1200, and the newly announced 1300 outdoor AP/bridge. However, a software upgrade for those devices will be required and will be available free immediately after ratification by the IEEE of the 802.11i standard. Software upgrades will also be available for 802.11a, b and g card-bus and NIC cards.
