MikroTik Wireless Security Concepts

1. WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3)

WPA3 is the latest security protocol for wireless networks, designed to provide stronger encryption and better protection against brute-force attacks. It introduces the Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE) protocol, which ensures secure key exchange even in the presence of offline dictionary attacks. WPA3 also offers individualized data encryption, meaning each device connected to the network has its own encryption key, enhancing security for sensitive data transmission.

Example: Imagine a secure vault where each visitor is given a unique key to access their own compartment. This ensures that even if one key is compromised, others remain secure.

2. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service)

RADIUS is a network protocol used for centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting management for users who connect and use a network service. In MikroTik, RADIUS can be configured to authenticate wireless users against a centralized database, ensuring that only authorized users can access the network. This is particularly useful in enterprise environments where multiple access points need to authenticate users against a single, secure database.

Example: Think of a security guard at a gated community who checks the identity of every visitor against a master list before granting access. This ensures that only authorized individuals can enter.

3. Captive Portal

A Captive Portal is a web page that users must interact with before gaining full access to the network. In MikroTik, this can be configured to require users to log in, accept terms of service, or provide payment information before accessing the internet. Captive Portals are commonly used in public Wi-Fi networks, hotels, and corporate environments to control access and gather user information.

Example: Consider a hotel lobby where guests must enter their room number and a password on a welcome screen before they can use the free Wi-Fi. This ensures that only hotel guests can access the network.

4. MAC Filtering

MAC Filtering involves restricting network access based on the Media Access Control (MAC) address of a device. In MikroTik, you can create a list of allowed or denied MAC addresses, ensuring that only devices with specific MAC addresses can connect to the wireless network. This is a basic security measure that can help prevent unauthorized devices from accessing the network.

Example: Think of a private club that only allows members with specific membership cards to enter. The bouncer checks each card against a list before granting entry, ensuring that only authorized members can access the club.