The Xirrus WLAN monitor, the function of a dedicated Integrated Access Point (IAP) contained in each Wi-Fi Array, is a revolutionary intrusion prevention tool that maintains careful watch over a Xirrus WLAN and VoWLAN deployments. This specialized WLAN monitor heads up a intrusion prevention system unique in its ability to provide consistent security coverage to the system, without dividing time between security and standard client wireless services. The WLAN monitor, or wireless network sniffer, offers constant supervision of the system to achieve higher security performance levels and more accurate RF scanning. The implementation of any WLAN or VoWLAN benefits significantly with this intrusion prevention system using a dedicated IAP as a WLAN monitor.

The WLAN monitor intrusion prevention system observes system events to ensure consistent security over the network. By analyzing system events, the wireless network sniffer provides immediate warnings of attempted intrusions and security breaches. Under this system, one programmable Integrated Access Point (IAP) is designated as a RF wireless network sniffer. By allocating one IAP as a full time security guard, the network is under constant surveillance. In combination with other security tools, including 802.1x and 802.11x, the Wi-Fi Array offers a unique and virtually unbeatable security system that provides the needed authentication, encryption and intrusion prevention system for a secure enterprise Wi-Fi network.

The WLAN Monitor Provides the Control Needed to Secure a WLAN

By allocating one IAP as a WLAN monitor, or wireless network sniffer, the system is ensuring that at all times the network is being guarded from intrusion. If, at times, the network needs the WLAN monitor IAP to provide them with standard client services, the IAP can be switched over by the IT administrator to complete those tasks, and then switched back to continue protecting the network. Additionally, by using programmable IAPs, the IT administrator has control over what channels the individual access points are running on. This control allows the network to transition between 802.11b/g and 802.11a/b/g safely and securely. By designating each IAP with its own individualized channel, the system experiences increased bandwidth for superior capacity, and also increased security for the safe transmission of data.

 

The WLAN Monitor - The Key to a Superior Intrusion Prevention System

When properly configured, this WLAN monitor creates a formidable intrusion prevention system. Under this system, the wireless network sniffer continuously watches over the network for rogue intrusions and other threats. The WLAN monitor utilizes one internal 360° omni-directional antenna and continuously scans for rogue APs and other security threats. By utilizing the advanced Xirrus Defense Module (XDM) for proactive IDS/IPS, WLAN monitor systems work consistently to provide superior security and protection to Xirrus' WLAN and VoWLAN deployments.

The Industry's Finest Security System

Pairing up with RFprotect™ has allowed a leading intrusion prevention system expert to provide sophisticated protection to Xirrus' revolutionary Wi-Fi Array Platform. The Wi-Fi Array uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Temporal Key Integrity Program (TKIP) encryption and authentication hardware as part of its extensive security system. In the case that the wireless network sniffer detects a rogue AP or other intruder, the system provides a real-time report of the occurrence while containing the imposter. The immediate response and instantaneous containment are vital to the success of the WLAN monitor, as they allow the IT administrator to quickly take action against unwelcome imposters and remove them from the system. This quick removal of illegitimate data can successfully safeguard a network from potential system hackers and further damage.

The Wireless Network Sniffer In Action

The security capabilities of the wireless network sniffer, a dedicated WLAN monitor constantly safeguarding the network against intruders, are necessary when running a wireless local area network. The inclusion of a reliable intrusion prevention system can provide the network with security features that are virtually unbeatable. The following safety features are to be expected from an IAP designated as a WLAN monitor:

• Continuous, uninterrupted scanning and firewall protection of network traffic

• Safe and secure channel transition between 802.11b/g and 802.11a/b/g

• Determination between authorized and unauthorized data

• Immediate containment of rogue data and access points

• Real-time reporting of rogue intrusion

The intrusion of imposters or rogue users in wireless systems can result in losing proprietary data, drained resources, wasted personnel hours and lost productivity, and could even result in the malicious destruction of an entire network. Protection from rogue imposters is elemental to the success of wireless communication - without it, systems communicating through RF are open to any number of threats and intrusions. Our WLAN monitor is a successful threat deterrence tool vital to the protection of wireless LANs. For further information on Xirrus' Wi-Fi Arrays and their superior intrusion prevention system, fill out the online form to be connected with one of our Authorized Xirrus Solution Providers, each of which is fully trained to provide solution information that fit the individual needs of the enterprise.