Linux Unwired [Electronic resources] نسخه متنی

Chapter 4. Communicating Securely

In a wired network, physical security is complicated but
manageable. You can restrict physical access to routers, switches,
and network hardware. You can provide a complex authentication
mechanism for proving that users are who they say they are. You can
set up Virtual LANs or Virtual Private
Networks for even more security. Even if an attacker were to plug
into your wireless network, it would be difficult to penetrate
further with these kinds of security measures in place.

The wireless network world is not nearly this secure. In fact,
it's not secure at all. Disassembling your network
packets and transmitting them wirelessly means that anyone within
reach can see them. A wily attacker could join or passively monitor
your network from a mile away with a high-gain antenna, and you would
never see him.