HP LaserJet 1320nw Wireless - Manual (Page 11)

ENWW Wireless networking basics 5
Security
As with other networks, security for wireless networks focuses on access control and privacy.
Traditional wireless network security includes the use of Service Set Identifiers (SSIDs), open or
shared-key authentication, static Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) keys, and optional Media
Access Control (MAC) authentication. This combination offers a basic level of access control and
privacy.
More advanced levels of security (such as Wi-Fi protected access [WPA] and Pre-shared key) are
available through the printer’s embedded Web server. For introductory information about the
embedded Web server, see
Embedded Web server . For detailed information about using the
features, see the embedded Web server online help.
Note It is highly recommended that you implement a wireless security scheme (either WEP or WPA) prior
to setup. In addition, use an antivirus program to protect against computer viruses, and follow basic
security rules such as setting strong passwords and not opening unknown attachments. Other
network components, including firewalls, intrusion-detection systems, and segmented networks,
should also be considered as part of your network design.
Authentication and encryption are two different approaches to network security. Authentication
verifies the identity of a user or device before granting access to the network, making it more
difficult for unauthorized users to access network resources. Encryption encodes the data being
sent across the network, making the data unintelligible to unauthorized users. Both of these
security methods are common on wireless networks.
Authentication
The HP installation software supports Open System authentication. More advanced forms of
authentication are available through the embedded Web server.
A network with Open System authentication does not screen network users based on their
identities and usually involves supplying the correct SSID. Such a network might use WEP
encryption to provide a first level of security.
Note Shared key and server-based authentication protocols are implemented through the embedded Web
server. For introductory information about the embedded Web server, see
Embedded Web server .
For detailed information about using the features, see the embedded Web server online help.
Network name (SSID)
Wireless devices are configured with the name of the network to which they will connect. The
network name is also called the SSID and identifies the ESS (Extended Service Set) that is
normally associated with larger infrastructure networks.
The SSID should not be considered a security feature because it can be easily identified.
However, as a network administration or management feature, it does provide basic network
access control.
HP Jetdirect print servers support a broadcast SSID, sometimes call a zero-length or blank SSID.
If a blank SSID is configured in infrastructure mode, the print server will attempt to associate with
the network SSIDs detected, starting with the strongest signal. Successful association will be
based on encryption and authentication settings.