IEEE 802.11b Wireless LAN: Security Risks

The wireless networking standard, the IEEE 802.11b, has recently become more and more popular due to its convenience and falling prices of the hardware. Users have the ability to transfer large files, access the Web and other high bandwidth activities without having the need to attach network cables to ports that are connected to switches or hubs. They have the freedom to roam around anywhere within the range of the wireless network. This paper will discuss the security features implemented in the 802.11b standard and the vulnerabilities discovered.