Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a wireless security standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. WPA technology encrypts user data and protects wireless networks from outside threats. WPA3 is the latest security standard from the Wi-Fi Alliance. WPA3 improves upon WPA2 in four main areas:
1. More secure handshake
A “handshake” occurs when a network device connects to a wireless access point. Both devices communicate to verify the session authentication and secure the connection. WPA3 includes a new handshake protocol that further protects your wireless connection from attacks even if your password is weak.
2. Improved system for adding Wi-Fi devices
WPA3 features a new system designed to help you add connected home and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to your network. Adding IoT devices such as WiFi cameras or WiFi speakers to your wireless network can be difficult and unsafe. Since most connected home devices don’t have displays for you to enter a password or configure security settings, adding these devices to your network requires a third-party program or app, and might leave these devices vulnerable. WPA3 enables you to add IoT devices using a QR code, and features enhanced security for smart home devices.
3. Increased security on public networks
WPA3 provides more data security when you use unsecure, open WiFi hotspots. This means that the data you send and receive over an unsecure network is still encrypted, even if that network is not password protected.
4. Increased security for enterprise environments
The 192-bit security suite featured in WPA3 provides a stronger security system for enterprise environments. A larger encryption key is especially important in government, defense, and industrial applications. This increased key size improves data encryption and makes it harder for critical networks to be hacked.
For more information about how to enable WPA3, see How do I enable WPA3 security on my NETGEAR router?.