ZyXEL Communications NWA-1100 User Manual

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 Chapter 7 Wireless Security Screen
ZyXEL NWA-1100 User’s Guide
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• WPA2-PSK-MIX. This commands the ZyXEL Device to use either WPA-PSK or 
WPA2-PSK depending on which security mode the wireless client uses.
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In Bridge and Bridge + AP operating modes, the only available security modes 
are WEP and WPA2-PSK.
Passphrase
A passphrase functions like a password. In WEP security mode, it is further converted by the 
ZyXEL Device into a complicated string that is referred to as the “key”. This key is requested 
from all devices wishing to connect to a wireless network.
PSK
The Pre-Shared Key (PSK) is a password shared by a wireless access point and a client during 
a previous secure connection. The key can then be used to establish a connection between the 
two parties.
Encryption
Wireless networks can use encryption to protect the information that is sent in the wireless 
network. Encryption is like a secret code. If you do not know the secret code, you cannot 
understand the message. Encryption is the process of converting data into unreadable text. 
This secures information in network communications. The intended recipient of the data can 
“unlock” it with a pre-assigned key, making the information readable only to him. The ZyXEL 
Device when used as a wireless client employs Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) data 
encryption.
EAP
Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) is a protocol used by a wireless client, an access 
point and an authentication server to negotiate a connection. 
The EAP methods employed by the ZyXEL Device when in Wireless Client operating mode 
are Transport Layer Security (TLS), Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP), 
Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol (LEAP) and Tunneled Transport Layer 
Security (TTLS). The authentication protocol may either be Microsoft Challenge Handshake 
Authentication Protocol Version 2 (MSCHAPv2) or Generic Token Card (GTC).
Further information on these terms can be found in 
7.4  The Security Screen
Use this screen to choose the security mode for your ZyXEL Device. 
Click Wireless > Security. The screen varies depending upon the security mode you select.