Wireless Data Security Peter Michel CSC 8560 February 24, 2004

Introduction  This article deals with security features of several types of wireless networks CDPD CDMA GPRS VPN

Cellular Digital Packet Data  Secure reliable protocol typically used by law enforcement and public safety officials  Wireless modem communicates by radio to a base station which transfers the data by landline to an intermediary system and then through a gateway to the destination  Sophisticated authentication, RSA encryption of data  Possible to create private networks

Code Division Multiple Access  Started in WWII to control torpedoes and used for communication during Cuban Missile Crisis  Wide bandwidth, multiple packets  Not susceptible to eavesdropping, 64 bit key used for encryption and authentication  Recently used with Smart Card technology

General Packet Radio Service  Subscriber Identity Module Card, PINs provide equipment security  Authentication and encryption  Firewall to protect from outside connections

Virtual Private Network  Data is encrypted on VPN client and decrypted at server  Opens a secure tunnel; private network from any location  Low cost, flexible, standards based

Conclusion  These technologies provide security within the carriers network. It does not extend into the Internet  Resource: Wireless_Security.pdf