SSID Last modified: Friday, May 01, 2009
Short for service set identifier, a 32-character unique identifier attached to the header of packets sent over a WLAN that acts as a password when a mobile device tries to connect to the BSS. The SSID differentiates one WLAN from another, so all access points and all devices attempting to connect to a specific WLAN must use the same SSID. A device will not be permitted to join the BSS unless it can provide the unique SSID. Because an SSID can be sniffed in plain text from a packet it does not supply any security to the network. An SSID is also referred to as a network name because essentially it is a name that identifies a wireless network.
Getting Phished: Why SSID Spoofing (Still) Matters Phony access points (APs) that use spoofed service set identifiers (SSIDs) to lure wireless users are nothing new. Implementing Multiple SSIDs some companies, such as Cisco and Symbol, are offering enterprise-class access points that support multiple SSIDs. Some examples of products that support multiple SSIDs are the Cisco 1100 Series access point, which can support up to 16 separate SSIDs, and the Symbol Mobius Axon Wireless Switch, which can support up to 32 separate SSIDs. Minimizing WLAN Security Threats Most wireless LANs do not invoke adequate security measures to guard against attacks. Learn what security threats exist for wireless LANs as the basis for deploying effective security measures. Webopedia's "Did You Know...?" Section Use this Webopedia knowledge section for an in-depth overview of specific technologies and occurrences in the areas of Computer Science, The Internet, and Computer Hardware and Software. Webopedia's Quick Reference Section Use this Webopedia reference section for information on common Internet and computer facts and occurrences. What SSID is Right for You? The problem with using the default SSID is that some confusion might result if a company or home owner next to you sets up a wireless LAN with the same vendor's access points. Wi-Fi Planet 802.11 news, commentary and information. Wi-FiHotSpotList.com Search this directory for Wi-Fi hotspots in your region. Wireless Privacy: An Oxymoron? ISPs deploying 802.11b for public broadband or fixed wireless Internet access should consider the risks associated with this emerging technology before network security is compromised.

Related Terms

802.11 Access Point AP device header network packet sniffer wireless WLAN

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