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In computer networking, a wireless access point (WAP) (also just access point (AP)) is a networking hardware device that allows other Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network or wireless network. As a standalone device, the AP may have a wired or wireless connection to a switch or router , but in a wireless router it can also be an integral ...
In WPA2-protected WLANs, secure communication is established through a multi-step process. Initially, devices associate with the Access Point (AP) via an association request. This is followed by a 4-way handshake, a crucial step ensuring both the client and AP have the correct Pre-Shared Key (PSK) without actually transmitting it.
A "soft access point" (soft AP) can be set up on a Wi-Fi adapter using for example Windows' virtual Wi-Fi or Intel's My WiFi. This makes it possible, without the need of a physical Wi-Fi router, to share the wired network access of one computer with wireless clients connected to that soft AP.
Wireless security is another aspect of computer security. Organizations may be particularly vulnerable to security breaches [6] caused by rogue access points.. If an employee adds a wireless interface to an unsecured port of a system, they may create a breach in network security that would allow access to confidential materials.
(For example, all of the devices that together form and use a Wi‑Fi network called "Foo" are a service set.) A service set forms a logical network of nodes operating with shared link-layer networking parameters; they form one logical network segment. A service set is either a basic service set (BSS) or an extended service set (ESS).
Wi-Fi is a technology that enables personal computers, smartphones, gaming consoles, and digital audio devices to connect to the internet wirelessly within a network area. Wi-Fi access points can cover small areas like a room or extend to several square miles, providing internet access.
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In a home or small office environment, the default gateway is a device, such as a DSL router or cable router, that connects the local network to the Internet. It serves as the default gateway for all network devices. Enterprise network systems may require many internal network segments. A device wishing to communicate with a host on the public ...