Wireless Network Site Survey for Security and Intrusion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) face security threats due to the mobility of air-bound wireless communication, which allows unauthorized access, eavesdropping, and Denial-of-Service attacks, as existing encryption standards like WEP are not foolproof, and incorrect configuration of access points leads to vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for surveying a wireless network site using a system data store and processor to collect and analyze RF signal characteristics, client identifiers, and coordinate information, enabling site survey functionality and intrusion detection to secure the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless networks use mobility and wireless communication, then network accessibility and flexibility are improved, but security vulnerabilities increase due to unauthorized access and eavesdropping
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs site surveys and security assessments before deploying the wireless network. Access points are configured with security policies and encryption settings in advance. The system pre-identifies potential security threats and implements protective measures before actual network operations begin, preventing unauthorized access and eavesdropping from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless sensors and monitoring systems as intermediaries between the wireless communication medium and the network infrastructure. These sensors detect and monitor wireless signals, client devices, and network activity, providing an intermediate layer of security that can identify and respond to threats without interfering with legitimate wireless communication.
2Reliability
If encryption standards like WEP are implemented, then data transmission security is improved, but security breaches still occur due to configuration errors and vulnerabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors wireless network activity, encryption effectiveness, and security events. Sensors detect unauthorized access attempts, configuration errors, and potential breaches in real-time. This feedback is sent to the access points and network administrators, who can then adjust encryption settings, reconfigure access policies, or respond to threats dynamically, ensuring ongoing security rather than relying solely on static encryption implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The access points and monitoring system automatically detect security issues, such as unauthorized clients or misconfigurations, and self-correct by adjusting encryption parameters, blocking malicious devices, or alerting administrators. This self-service capability reduces reliance on manual configuration and maintains security even when human error occurs.
3Productivity
If access points are deployed for wireless coverage, then network connectivity is improved, but security risks increase due to incorrect configuration
Solution Approach 1:
Access points are pre-configured with secure default settings, encryption protocols, and security policies before deployment. The system performs preliminary site surveys to identify optimal placement and potential security concerns. Configuration templates and best practices are established in advance, ensuring that even if manual configuration occurs, security standards are maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
Wireless sensors act as intermediaries that monitor access point configurations and operations. These sensors detect misconfigurations, unauthorized changes, or security risks associated with access points and alert the system or administrators, providing continuous verification that connectivity-enhancing devices are not creating security vulnerabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
This application is directed to systems and methods for surveying a wireless network site. A wireless network receiver or proxy is contacted. One or more client identifiers are received from the contacted receiver or proxy. Coordinate information is also received from the contacted receiver or proxy. The received client identifiers are correlated with the received coordinate information. RF signal characteristic data is received from the contacted wireless network or proxy. Survey data is stored based on the received client identifiers, coordinate information, and RF signal characteristic data.