4.2 Plan security for wireless networks.Summary of Exam ObjectivesExam Objectives Fast TrackExam Objectives Frequently Asked QuestionsSelf TestSelf Test Quick Answer Key
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Introduction
Over the past several years, wireless technologies have become more popular as the pricesassociated with wireless solutions have dramatically decreased. Many companies rely onwireless technologies to give them the freedom they need to become “mobile” within theirnew environments. As the speed and capabilities of wireless technologies increase and thecost decreases, wireless will in some cases completely replace wired technologies.In Windows Server 2003, wireless technologies will play a large part in how youmanage your network environment. In order to properly manage a wireless environment,you need to familiarize yourself with the technologies available to wireless users, the risksassociated with wireless, how to secure a wireless connection, and how to properly con-figure Windows for use with wireless connectivity. In Windows Server 2003, Microsoft hasadded several tools and configuration options to make it easier to add a wireless network toyour environment.In this chapter, we begin with a discussion of general wireless concepts.We cover topicssuch as how wireless works, what a typical wireless architecture might look like, and theprotocols and standards associated with wireless technologies. As you have seen throughoutthis book thus far, security has become a major focal point for Microsoft and its develop-ment of the Windows Server 2003 operating system. For that reason, it is important tounderstand the vulnerabilities and exploits that exist in a wireless environment and whatyou can do to prevent them from occurring.Lastly, you will learn how to plan for, configure, and implement wireless technologies inyour environment.This chapter lays the groundwork for deciding on the best configurationfor Windows for your wireless environment, best practices for implementation, and whatyou need to know to secure and monitor your wireless network once it is in place.
Wireless Concepts
Wireless local area networks (WLANs) are based on the IEEE 802.11 specification. IEEE
