Wireless and Network Security

This document provides information about wireless and network security, including WLAN sniffing tools Wireshark and Fiddler. It also discusses the installation process of Wireshark and Fiddler. Additionally, it explores emerging wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, and Gi-Fi, their applications, advantages, disadvantages, and security concerns.

Wireless and Network Security
Name
Course
Institution

Part A
The two WLAN sniffing tool that will be demonstrated in this section are Wireshark and
Fiddler.
Wireshark
Wireshark is a popular open-source WLAN sniffing tool that allows the network
administrators to monitor all the details regarding the network and how traffic is transmitted
across the network.it is easy to use and offer features like alerts, filtering, advanced triggers,
and customizable reports. Other features include rich VoIP analysis, captures .gzip
compressed files, offline analysis and live capture, support decryption for many protocols,
standard three-packet browsers, and is multi-platform [1]. The next section will describe
installation of Wireshark on a computer running on Windows operating system. First, ensure
that you have downloaded the correct version for your operating system either 64 or 32-bit.
Step 1: run the installation file as administrator, click next when the following screen appears.
Figure 1: Step 1
Step 2: Click on ‘I Agree’ to accept the terms and conditions as shown in figure 2

Figure 2: Step 2
Step 3: Select all the components and click on ‘Next’ as shown in figure 3.
Figure 3:Step 3

Step 4: Choose if you prefer Desktop Icon or Start menu as shown in figure 4 and click next.
Make sure the ‘File Extensions’ is selected.
Figure 4: Step 4
Step 5: Choose installation location, by default it selects C:\Program Files\Wireshark. Click
‘Next’ as shown in figure 5.

Figure 5: Step 5
Step 6: For Wireshark to work, one needs to install WinPcap. Check on the install checkbox
and click on ‘install’ as shown in figure 6.
Figure 6: Step 6

Step 7: The files will be extracted as shown in figure 7. Wait for it to finish.
Figure 7: Step 7
Step 8: after extraction is completed a window like the one shown in figure 8 will pop up.
Click ‘next’.

Figure 8: Step 8
Step 9: Click on ‘I Agree’ to continue with installation as shown in figure 9.
Figure 9: Step 9
Step 10: Check on the Automatically start the WinPcap driver at boot time Check box as
shown in figure 10 and click on ‘Install’.

Figure 10: Step 10
Step 11: Click on finish once the installation process is completed as shown in figure 11.
Figure 11: Step 11

Step 12: Once you have completed installing WinPcap, Wireshark will proceed and complete
installation as shown in figure 12 and click on ‘next’.
Figure 12: Step 12
Step 13: Installation of Wireshark is successful, click on ‘Finish as shown in figure 13.

Figure 13: Step 13
Once done, you can launch Wireshark from the program Icon on the desktop or start menu.
The dashboard will be as shown in figure 14.
Figure 14: Wireshark Dashboard
Fiddler
Initially, Fiddler was not designed for packet sniffing, but additional features have been
added to support WLAN sniffing. It is used to log and manipulate HTTPS and HTTP traffic
whether on non-web applications, desktop, or any device as long as it utilizes HTTPs and
HTTP connection and transmission. Fiddler provide superior packet sniffing functionalities
and helps a network administrator to identify the cause of high traffic on the network. It can
also be used to remove performance bottleneck. Moreover, it provides decryption of HTTPS
traffic and web debugging function [2]. To install Fiddler on a computer running Windows
operating system, the following steps can be followed.
First download installation file that is compatible with your version of the operating system.
Step 1: Run the installation file that you have down loaded as shown in figure 15.

Figure 15: Step 1
Step 2: Accept the terms and conditions by clicking on ‘I Agree’ as shown in figure 16.
Figure 16: Step 2
Step 3: Choose the installation path as shown in figure 17 and click on Install.

Figure 17: Step 3
Step 4: Once the installation is complete, click on ‘Close’ as shown in figure 18.
Figure 18: Step 4
Launch Fiddler and begin packet sniffing.
Comparing the two WLAN sniffing tools, Wireshark is way better and offer a great graphical
user interface and superior sniffing tools.
Part B
Emerging Wireless Technologies
In the modern era, the evolving wireless technologies are slowly replacing the wired
connections. Evolvement of new wireless technologies has assisted in bringing out various

new applications and ideas to the community. Today, people are looking forward to various
solutions in the field of wireless which assists in exploding out several new wireless
technologies. Wireless technology is a most recent technical term used to define
telecommunication where the electromagnetic (EM) waves transmit over the path of
communication [3]. The following are some of the most recent wireless technologies.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is also referred to as wireless fidelity. It is a wireless technology that assists an
electronic machine to connect internet and transmit data using radio waves. Several electronic
gadgets such as video games, digital audio players, PCs and cameras use Wi-Fi. Wireless
adapter and wireless router assist in the operation of Wi-Fi [4]. Their roles are:
 The PC wireless adapter converts information to radio signal and transfers it through
antenna
 Wireless router collects and translates the signal. Besides, it assists in sending the data
to internet through ethernet and physical connection.
Application of WI-FI
There are several Wi-Fi connectivity applications. Home Wi-Fi is used to connect game
console, PC or laptop. If 2 to 3 family members own a laptop, they can share their files, data
and photos [5]. Besides, they can conduct printing by connecting their computers to print
server or PC. In addition, the surrounding is kept clean as there are no wire mess. There are
no limits of utilizing Wi-Fi as one can change from one area to another and still have the
freedom to use the internet within the radial distance range.
In an office arrangement, all laptops can be connected and allow balance and check whether
workers are working or not. A job can be demonstrated to all associates in various ways such
as ppt, excel sheet or word document. Besides, windows can be shared when delivering
speech thus making the speech effective since the audience not only hear but also receive the
visual data. Various public habitants such as restaurants, café and clubs are provided with
Wi-Fi connectivity to attract customers [6]. A prospect client appreciates a company’s
awareness and efficiency of the emerging trends.
The concept of Wi-Fi hotspots is acquiring fame among mobile workers and business
communities. ISPS are including Wi-Fi routers to various areas for an extended coverage.
Internet accessibility is free in some ways and by other means internet connectivity is paid for
on the basis of time or preferred package. Currently, mobiles, computers and laptops are Wi-

Fi oriented, as such, two laptops or computers are effortless connected without point of
access. A prospect business person will definitely use Wi-Fi technology to improve the
output of his or her employees thus producing effective workforce to improve the business.
Besides, an entire campus can now have one access point at a specific height and all scholars
can benefit from it [7]. Wi-Fi is not constrained to small businesses or private users. Its future
can be predicted as it can be applied in profitable ways and versatile modes. Everyone is
currently embracing the Wi-Fi technology to enhance their business.
Advantages of Wi-Fi
Convenience: Wi-Fi permits users to access resources of a network from almost any suitable
location within their main networking setting.
Mobility: users can use the internet in other surroundings beside the work environment.
Productivity: users can keep a consistent connection with their preferred network as they
change from one place to another.
Deployment: the infrastructure setting of Wi-Fi is cheaper and is less complex compared to
that of wired networks.
Expandability: with the one equipment, Wi-Fi can serve more customers as compared to
wired networks where additional customers will need extra wiring.
Disadvantages of Wi-Fi
Security: to address the security issue, wireless networks may use different encryption
technologies. Nevertheless, some of the most used encryption technologies are associated
with various weaknesses that can cause more trouble [8].
Range: Wi-Fi maybe suitable for a normal home, but it is unsuitable for big structures as
additional repeaters, range or access point will have to be bought.
Reliability: signals of wireless network tend to receive interference.
Speed: the speed of Wi-Fi is slower compared to that of wired networks.
Security Issues of Wi-Fi
The following are some of the security issues associated with Wi-Fi [6]
 Data interception: information transmitted over Wi-Fi can be obtained by unintended
listeners.
 Rogue Aps: unauthorized and unknown Aps can penetrate a business Wi-Fi network
 Wireless intruders
 Misconfigured Aps
 Misbehaving customers

 Endpoints attacks
 Wireless phishing
Li-Fi
Li-Fi, also known as light fidelity is an evolving model in the most recent wireless
technologies. Their usability, speed and flexibility among others make them outstanding. Li-
Fi uses visible light to provide wireless communications [9]. By using the LED light, Li-Fi
assists in transmitting the data securely and efficiently.
Applications of Li-Fi
Li-Fi livestreaming: most consumers and brand audience prefer watching live videos from a
company than reading a blog or posts. Due to the high rates of speed that Li-Fi can reach, it
can be provided in sport stadium, air planes, big shopping mall, streets lights and trains.
Therefore, any user can consume comprehensive data media such as live streaming and
videos from their mobile gadgets or smartphones almost anywhere as long as they are
exposed to Li-Fi connected LEDs [9].
Li-Fi in Hospitals: Li-Fi can be utilized in Hospital’s waiting rooms, operating theatres,
corridors and patient rooms. Li-Fi eliminates issues of electromagnetic interference from Wi-
Fi and smartphone usage in hospitals. Besides, Li-Fi can be used to report and monitor
movement of patients and critical signs without using wires.
Li-Fi in offices: Li-Fi provides wireless connectivity that is secure in workplaces. Individuals
can benefit from networking capability as well as pick a skype video conference call and
change from one place to another without interfering with that call. Li-Fi networks offers a
consistent internet speed connection to workplace visitors and workers [10].
Li-Fi in schools: Li-Fi offers a smooth network security and connectivity throughout the
entire school.
Li-Fi in retail: Li-Fi offers direction to customers while shopping around the shop. It can
assist them trace particular goods in the store, check for any promotions, participate in online
services of a store using their smart gadgets, gather digital coupons, check the availability of
stock of various items on the shelves and enhance their shopping experience.
Advantages of Li-Fi technology
The following are some of the advantages of Li-Fi technology [11]
 It is energy and cost effective

 It is available everywhere
 It is secure
Disadvantages of Li-Fi Technology
 Internet depends on light source thus limiting situations and locations where Li-Fi
could be used [11].
 The range of signals is restricted by physical hurdles
 Other light sources may affect the signal. Signals will be affected by sunlight thus
interrupting the internet
 An entire Li-Fi infrastructure need to be developed
Security Concerns of Li-Fi
Since the signal cannot penetrate through walls, data cannot be leaked into public spaces or
other buildings thus preventing access to eavesdroppers [10].
Gi-Fi
Gi-Fi also referred to as Gigabit wireless is a wireless communication that offers data at a rate
of gigabits per second. Gi-Fi allows transmission of audios and videos at a rate of 5 GB per
second [12].
Applications of Gi-Fi
Gi-Fi can be applied for various scenarios. They include [13]:
 Office appliance: as a result of its capability to transit information within a few
seconds, it is recommended to employ for purposes of the office as it offers data from
the internet
 Transmission of video data: with the modern technologies, the transmission of videos
may be a long procedure as it may involve long hours, nevertheless, with the use of
Gi-Fi, videos can be transmitted fast. Data transfer rate is same for mobile phones and
computers.
 Household appliance: end-users can without much of an effort download their
preferred movies in seconds and watch it at home. It provides a higher speed of
download and content streaming, real time streaming and internet.
 Inter-vehicle communication: allows vehicles on the go to maintain connection.
Advantages of Gi-Fi
 It has better transfer rates compared to Wi-Fi [13]
 It is cost-efficient

 It is secure
 It has low consumption of power
 It is highly-portable
 Offers service deployment within few minutes
 It provides a versatile architecture
Disadvantage of Gi-Fi
 Higher cost for long range transmission
Security Concerns of Gi-Fi
It has no security concerns as it offers service level and link level security [14].
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi and Gi-Fi technologies are better than the wired networks.
However, the most recommended wireless technology is Gi-Fi. Its features as well as other
benefits shows why it should replace the current wireless technologies. Gi-Fi has better
transfer rates, it consumes low power, it is highly secure, it is cost effective, and it is highly
portable. Gi-Fi can be applied in different devices such as smartphones and media access
control. Gi-Fi is expected to be the leading wireless technology within a span of five years.
By then it will be more mobile and will offer high broadband access and low cost. Large
documents will be transferred at a high speed thus developing a wireless office and home of
future. Gi-Fi has the potential of bringing wireless broadband to the business in a completely
new way.

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