WEP vs WPA vs WPA2 vs WPA3 – WiFi Security Protocols Explained

WiFi security algorithms have been in practice since the 1990s. The world has undergone a revolution thanks to the usage of technology. We use Wifi and the internet for almost all kinds of tasks. To be precise, our lives now wouldn’t be the same without wireless networks. Be it home or office, wireless networks are present everywhere. 

Indeed, wireless communication is undoubtedly convenient, but there are security issues as well. The possibility of theft or hacking can grow on an insecure network. As a result, network security has become a key component of wireless networking. It is crucial to comprehend the various WiFi security protocols and how they operate.

What is a WiFi Security Protocol?

WiFi Security Protocol is a set of security measures that are used to protect wireless networks from unauthorized access. It helps prevent hackers from accessing the network and provides secure data transmission over the airwaves. Wi-Fi Alliance, the non-profit organization is in charge of protecting the Wi-Fi brand and certifies all Wi-Fi security protocols.

 In wireless security, network access and security policies specify which endpoints are and aren’t allowed on a Wi-Fi network. The protocol also helps protect user information, such as passwords and credit card numbers, by encrypting data before it is sent over the network.  Additionally, it can be used to authenticate users and devices before allowing them to access the network.

Let us discuss the different security protocols used for wireless networks – WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 in detail. 

What is the Best Security Protocol for WiFi?

WiFi security is an important consideration for many businesses as well as individuals. It is essential to ensure that your network is secure, as it can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The best security protocol for WiFi depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of data being transmitted, the level of encryption needed, and the number of devices connected to the network. 

Here, we have listed some of the commonly used wireless security protocols. Let me tell you each has its own unique advantage and disadvantage which one must consider when choosing a protocol for their network.

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)

WEP was the first security protocol for wireless networks that came into practice in 1999. As per the OSI model, WEP operates at the physical and data link layers. The purpose behind WEP was to deliver the same level of security as wired networks and address the issue of wireless data theft. The wired equivalent privacy helped encrypt the data and maintain the confidentiality of the user’s information. 

The WEP not only helped enhance security but also aid in preventing illegal users from connecting to the wireless network. However, later it turned out to be vulnerable and easily hacked. The major drawback of WEP is that it uses static keys shared by all the devices on the network. Also, WEP offers no defence against replay attacks.

Hence, it was concluded that WEP is not a secure solution as expected.

Suggested Read: Why You Should Be Using A VPN for Your Phone

WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access)

The Wi-Fi Alliance created WPA, a security certificate standard, in 2003 to safeguard wireless computer networks. WPA is the upgraded version of WEP introduced with advanced security features. Unlike WEP, it offers a shared pre-set key that makes it difficult for attackers to decipher the key. Additionally, it uses Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) and RC4 for encrypting data.

WPA also supports the concept of the Four-Way Handshake that allows only authorized devices to become a part of the network. Another benefit of WPA is it offers features that help prevent IV reuse, broadcast updated keys automatically, and message integrity check. With WPA, you no longer need to invest in new routers and computer components.

No doubt, the security protocol offers better protection, but it has a few vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Another reason for replacing WPA with WPA2 was it demands more computing power on the router side.

WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access II)

WPA2 is another wireless security protocol that was introduced in 2004 and is still widely used today. The security protocol was designed to provide a secure connection between wireless devices and access points. It is the most widely used security protocol for Wi-Fi networks and was developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. 

It is an improved version of WPA with stronger security features. WPA2 uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm to protect data transmitted over Wi-Fi networks from unauthorized access. It also provides authentication and encryption through the use of an authentication server, which ensures that only authorized users can connect to the network. 

WPA2 is considered one of the most secure protocols available for wireless networks, making it an ideal choice for businesses and other organizations that need to protect their data from unauthorized access. Further, apart from Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, it uses Counter Mode with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol (CCMP) mechanisms to secure transmissions. 

It also uses a stronger Four-Way Handshake concept. But some attacks, like the KRACK attack, exploit the Four-Way Handshake, and can still succeed against WPA2.

WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access III)

WPA3 is the latest wireless security protocol released by the Wi-Fi Alliance, which is an industry consortium that sets standards for wireless networks.  WPA3 provides stronger encryption and authentication, as well as improved user experience for both users and administrators. It also includes features such as individualized data encryption and a simplified connection process for devices with limited or no display interface. Additionally, it offers enhanced protection against brute force attacks, making it more secure than its predecessor.

Another reason that made WPA3 a better protocol was it uses the Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE) protocol, which is more secure than the Four-Way Handshake used in WPA2. In addition, WPA3 introduces new security features for public Wi-Fi networks, making them more secure.

Another plus point about WPA3 is it has a 128-bit cryptography suite for personal use and 192-bit secure encryption for commercial users. Additionally, it enables a 48-bit IV key to increase the security of business, financial, and governmental data.

Conclusion

The more recent the security protocols, the better off your network is in terms of security. WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 are the popular wireless security protocols that have been in practice since the 1990s. These WiFi Security Protocols were introduced to add more protection to your confidential data. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) came into practice in 1999 and is no longer considered secure. Soon, it was replaced by WPA.

Even though WPA was a substantial improvement over WEP, its main flaw was that its essential parts could be added via firmware updates to WEP-compatible devices, which meant that it didn’t offer enough protection from hacker attacks.

WPA2 is currently the most widely used security protocol and uses AES encryption for protection, but it is still vulnerable to some attacks. WPA3 is the latest security protocol and provides stronger security features. 

When setting up a wireless network, it is important to choose the appropriate security protocol based on the level of security required. You can also join a cybersecurity degree program and become an expert at preventing any data breaches.

Also Read: Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small Organizations