Robust Security Network, Research Paper Example

Robust Security Network (RSN) are exclusively for wireless networks, “that is a network protocol that is used for creating and establishing the secure communication connections and transmissions over the safe wireless networks such as 802.11.”(Riaz, n.d) Robust Security Networks are virtually known as WPA2, replaced the standard WEP security specification. Robust Security Network is broken down into five phases of operation, Discovery, Authentication, Key Generation and Distribution, Protected Data Transfer, and Connection Termination. Within the typical Robust Security Network, it operates a general internet protocol that wirelessly sends probe requests that are received by access points that respond back with the complete RSN information and IE frame information exchange. The wireless request can be in the forms of NIC that are authenticated by the approved technique installed where the access points will provide authentication, and exchange of information until the appropriate interface is received.

Robust Security Network Associations that are only created by Robust Security Networks that are a type of association used by a pair of (STAs) to establish authentication or association provides TKIP and CCMP, two RSNA data confidentiality and integrity protocols. The 4-Way Handshake is a prime protocol for RSNA that provides a master key for authentication of access points. “RSNAs are wireless connections that provide moderate to high levels of assurance against WLAN security threats through the use of a variety of cryptographic techniques.” (Frankel, Eydt, Owens, Scarfone, 2007) RSNA is able to evolve with the changing needs of security in the forms of Extensible Authentication Protocol including, CCMP and AES, IEEE 802.1X, Preshared Keys, Certificates and PACs, and Transition Security Network which create a secure architecture for secure wireless connections. These concepts are used in providing better authentication, confidentiality, and security for wireless networks and devices. In implementing the RSNAs individuals must update all hardware and software in order to be compatible, this only serves as an advantage that allows for the most recent equipment and security updates in protection confidential and valuable data. RSN, “RSN includes IEEE 802.1X port-based access control, key management techniques, and the TKIP and CCMP data confidentiality and integrity protocols.” (Frankel, Eydt, Owens, Scarfone, 2007) Key Management includes that the cryptography used is randomly generated in order to prevent one adversary from gaining access, change frequently, protect while in storage so that no one can deciphered it, and erase completely when no longer being used. These key managements are, “the process of handling and controlling cryptographic keys and related material (such as initialization values) during their life cycle in a cryptographic system.” (Frankel, Eydt, Owens, Scarfone, 2007) However, where they are flawed are that RSN is difficult to implement in all devices, and must be reconfigured when adding new devices. RSN require proper management of their complex systems, and any gap in authentication can result in a delay in response time in communication and connections.

References

Frankel, Sheila, Bernard Eydt, Les Owens, Karen Scarfone. (2007). “Establishing Wireless Robust Security Networks: A Guide to IEEE 802.11i.” NIST. Retrieved from http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-97/SP800-97.pdf

Riaz, Jawad Ahmad. (n.d). “What is robust secure networks – What is RSN.” WifiNotes. Retrieved from http://www.wifinotes.com/what-is-robust-secure-networks.html