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Media Access Control (MAC)
Address
A computer’s unique hardware number in a network,
which also can provide security for wireless networks.
When a network uses a MAC table, only the 802.11
radios (wireless devices) that have had their MAC
addresses added to that network’s MAC table can
access the network.
Security Set Identifier (SSID)
A sequence of 32 characters uniquely defining
(naming) a WLAN. Basically, each set of wireless
devices communicating with each other is called a
basic service set (BSS). Several BSSs can be joined to
form one logical WLAN, called an extended service set
(ESS). An SSID is the 1-32 alphanumeric, case-sensitive
name given to each ESS.
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) The Wi-Fi encryption method that protects unauthorized
network access by utilizing a setup password (for
personal use) or by verifying network users through a
server (for enterprise use).
Windows Internet Naming
Service (WINS)
A way of managing the association of workstation
names and locations with IP addresses.
Wired Equivalent Privacy
(WEP)
Basic wireless security provided by Wi-Fi. This security
uses an encryption key that automatically encrypts
outgoing wireless data. On the receiving side, the same
encryption key enables the computer to automatically
decrypt the information so it can be read.
Wireless Access Point
A wireless LAN transceiver or "base station" that can
connect a wired LAN to one or many wireless devices.
In addition, access points can also bridge to each
other.
Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi)
A certification for wireless LAN products based on the
IEEE 802.11 standard.
Term
Definition (continued)