How does WPA3 improve security?

Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) is the latest security protocol designed to enhance the security of Wi-Fi networks. It was introduced as an improvement over its predecessor, WPA2, addressing some of the vulnerabilities and weaknesses identified in the earlier standard. Here are some key ways in which WPA3 improves security:

1. Enhanced Encryption:

   • WPA3 employs stronger encryption algorithms, such as 256-bit Galois/Counter Mode Protocol (GCMP-256), providing a higher level of security compared to the 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) used in WPA2. This makes it more resistant to brute-force attacks.

2. Protection Against Offline Dictionary Attacks:

   • WPA3 enhances protection against offline dictionary attacks by implementing a secure key establishment protocol called Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE). SAE protects against password-guessing attacks even if an attacker captures the handshake messages, making it more resilient against offline attacks.

3. Individualized Data Encryption:

   • WPA3 introduces individualized data encryption, meaning that even if an attacker is able to compromise one device on the network, the data transmitted by other devices remains secure. This provides an additional layer of protection for users within the same Wi-Fi network.

4. Protection Against Brute-Force Attacks:

   • WPA3 includes protection against brute-force attacks by slowing down the authentication process. After a certain number of failed authentication attempts, the system introduces a delay, making it more difficult and time-consuming for attackers to guess passwords.

5. Forward Secrecy:

   • WPA3 incorporates forward secrecy through the use of Diffie-Hellman key exchange during the authentication process. This means that even if an attacker were to capture and later decrypt a Wi-Fi session, past sessions would remain secure because the keys are not reused.

6. Improved Security for Open Networks:

   • WPA3 provides improved security for open Wi-Fi networks through Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE). OWE encrypts data between the device and the access point without requiring a pre-shared key, reducing the risk of eavesdropping on open networks.