This course is primarily hands-on. Delegates build and configure wireless networks, test them for vulnerabilities & learn how to secure them. Open group discussion is strongly encouraged. Each delegate has his/her workstation & appropriate wireless hardware. Advanced tools & techniques used to break-into wireless networks will be demonstrated by the instructor. Delegates will learn how a hacker can break into an unsecured wireless network, and how to defend against such attacks. Our state-of-the-art class environment provides delegates with a first-hand opportunity to experiment with wireless devices and the tools used to break into wireless networks. The course is designed to educate for the purpose of properly defending wireless systems from hacking attacks.

Target Audience

~      Those responsible for the security of IT systems within an organisation, including but not limited to: IT Managers, Systems / Network Administrators, Auditors, Security Officers, Systems Analysts, IT Security Professionals & Data Protection representatives
~      Those interested in understanding the risks associated with wireless networks and how to best protect them

At Course Completion

Delegates will learn:
~      Familiarisation with the various hardware and software components of a wireless network
~      How to build different types of wireless infrastructure and the features of each configuration through hands-on experience
~      How hackers use weaknesses in the security of wireless networks to gain unauthorised access
~      Typical tools and techniques used to gain or force access into a wireless network
~      How to test a wireless network for any security related issues or weaknesses
~      The methods used to detect the presence of a wireless network including “war driving”
~      The practical steps that can be taken to defend and safeguard your wireless implementation

Pre-Requisites

A background in Microsoft Windows and basic TCP/IP networking.

Topics

~      Wireless Network Security Introduction
A background into wireless networks & the security issues associated with a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

~      Hardware
Identification of wireless hardware components & their functionality
802.11 architectures & commonly used terminology
Build an understanding of the hardware & topology used throughout the course

~      Software
Installation of wireless node client software
Configuration of an “ad-hoc” WLAN
Installing a wireless Access Point (AP)
Configuration of an “infrastructure” WLAN

~      Vulnerabilities
Review of wireless theory with particular attention to security related issues
An overview of the security weaknesses associated with wireless networks
Understanding how hackers can exploit such weaknesses & break into wireless networks

~      Testing for Wireless Vulnerabilities
Hands-on exploration of a default wireless network configuration
An overview of “war driving” & a practical demonstration of the equipment / tools used to gain access

~      Securing Wireless Networks
How wireless networks can be protected against attack
Hands-on work with various wireless security features

~      Testing the Level of Security
Once the WLAN is has security applied, hands-on testing of the degree of security offered from the perspective of a hacker

~      Wireless Hacking Countermeasures
A review of the day’s activity with emphasis on how to practically apply the principles that have been learned