What is WPA2-Enterprise?
WPA2-Enterprise, or Wi-Fi Protected Access II - Enterprise, is a security protocol designed for wireless networks. It is a more robust and secure variation of the WPA2 Personal mode, tailored for organizations that require enhanced security for their network infrastructure.
One of the key features of WPA2-Enterprise is the use of the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP), which allows for a scalable and secure authentication process. This enables the verification of user identities before they gain access to the network. Organizations can implement various EAP methods, including PEAP, EAP-TLS, and EAP-FAST, depending on their needs.
Unlike WPA2 Personal, which relies on a pre-shared key (PSK) for authentication, WPA2-Enterprise focuses on individual user credentials. Each user has a unique username and password, adding an additional layer of security. This ensures that even if a user's credentials are compromised, the overall network security remains intact since each account is independently managed.
Furthermore, WPA2-Enterprise supports centralized authentication, typically through a RADIUS server. This setup not only enhances security but also simplifies the management of user accounts and access controls. With WPA2-Enterprise, organizations can enforce policies, manage user permissions, and monitor network access effectively.