Get an in-depth understanding of how to hack WiFi networks and their vulnerabilities. Learn how Wi-Fi networks use packets, how to crack WPA2, and how to fortify your own network.
Introduction to Wi-Fi Network Security
Wi-Fi technology is a crucial facet of our daily digital interactions, from educational activities to streaming our favourite shows on Netflix.
Have you ever pondered over the security of these Wi-Fi networks? To apprehend the functionality better, let’s delve into the core concept of how data travels over these networks – ‘The Packet.’
Understanding Data Packets
A packet is the quintessential building block for data transfers over a network, imagine it as a Lego set. Packets, much like the Lego blocks, come with a Header (instructions), and Payload (main content).
The Internet is the largest known packet switching network, enabling us to access data from across the globe.
Cracking WPA2 – An Overview
Wi-Fi has several security protocols for a secure internet connection – Open, WEP, WPA2, and WPA3. WPA2 is prevalent around the world, making it an apt subject for this tutorial.
The prerequisites you need include a Linux machine (preferably Kali Linux), a wireless adapter, and the Aircrack-ng tool installed.
Reconnaissance and Capturing Handshake Packets
The first step involves switching your wireless card to ‘monitor’ mode to observe wireless traffic. Now, focus on your target Access Point (AP) and look out for the ‘handshake packets’ – the first four packets sent when a device connects to an AP.
Launching a DOS (Denial-Of-Service) Attack
Performing a de-authentication attack can help capture the handshake packets. The process includes setting up Airodump-ng to capture packets, disconnecting the device from AP for a while, and capturing the handshake.
Decoding the Password
The final stage involves running a multitude of generated Pairwise Master Keys (PMKs) against the captured packets to obtain the password. This involves using a wordlist – in our case, we used the rockyou wordlist, one of the biggest and most reliable wordlists available.
Mitigation Measures Against Wi-Fi Attacks
Knowing how to crack a Wi-Fi network is one thing; fortifying your own network against such attacks is vital.
Moving to WPA3, the newer, more secure protocol, using strong passphrases, disabling Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), and avoiding routers using WEP protocol can help safeguard against Wi-Fi attacks.
Remember, understanding security measures is key to protecting your digital landscape, but using this knowledge for illicit activities could lead to severe legal consequences. Let’s use our understanding of Wi-Fi security wisely!
