Wireless LAN Security

What Hackers Know That You Don't

Matt Sidhu, Sr. Wireless Security Engineer

Wednesday, September 07, 2005

Networking Dinner @ 5:45; Pre-Meeting Bootcamp @ 6:15 and Chapter Business @ 6:45; Program @ 7:00 PM

Wireless technology is exploding in popularity. Businesses are not only migrating to wireless networking, they are steadily integrating wireless technology and associated components into their wired infrastructure. The demand for wireless access to LANs is fueled by the growth of mobile computing devices and a desire by users for continual connections to the network without having to "plug in." This explosion has given momentum to a new generation of hackers who specialize in inventing and deploying innovative methods of hijacking wireless communications. Hackers armed with new tools such as hunter_killer, AirJack, the Evil Twin phishing attack etc. are launching attacks on networks that a year ago were said to be unbreakable. Also another challenging and widespread issue is the increase in rogue wireless devices like soft APs, wireless-enabled laptops and neighboring wireless networks that may bleed over, combining hostile rogues with friendly or unconnected devices.

However wireless LANs can be secured with a thought-out plan and proven layers of security. This seminar will provide best practices to network executives and security managers on how to confidently deploy and secure their wireless network and protect against security threats, rogue devices and policy violations.

Topics will include:

• Most common WLAN risks
• How to mitigate these security risks
• Layered Approach to security
• What benefits can be derived from implementing wireless intrusion prevention systems

Matt Sidhu is a Senior Wireless Security Specialist with AirDefense helping customers architect security monitoring into wireless networks. Matt has over 10 years of experience providing consulting service to Fortune 500 companies in architecting, deploying and managing enterprise wide solutions. He has held various positions where he was responsible for developing business strategies for security consulting, training, and customer support. Matt holds Masters in Computer Engineering from University of Cincinnati and an MBA from Arizona State University.