CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)IT Concepts and TerminologyMedium
A network technician is configuring a new wireless access point and needs to ensure that the network name (SSID) is not broadcast to prevent easy discovery. Which configuration setting should the technician modify?
- ASwitch from WPA2 to WPA3 encryption.
- BChange the default administrator password.
- CEnable MAC address filtering.
- DDisable SSID broadcast.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Disable SSID broadcast.
Disabling SSID broadcast prevents the access point from publicly advertising its network name, making it less visible to casual users scanning for Wi-Fi networks. While not a foolproof security measure, it adds a layer of obscurity.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Upgrading encryption improves data security but doesn't prevent the SSID from being broadcast.
- B. Changing the admin password is crucial for security but doesn't affect SSID broadcast.
- C. MAC address filtering restricts access to specific devices but doesn't hide the SSID.
SSID Broadcast
The process by which a wireless access point periodically sends out beacons containing its network name (SSID) to allow devices to discover it.
- Enabled by default for easy network discovery.
- Can be disabled for a minor security obscurity measure.
- Hiding SSID does not prevent determined attackers from finding the network.
Memory trick: Hide the name, filter the MAC, encrypt the data, don't turn back.