Funk brings in the WPA2

WPA2, a second-generation Wi-Fi security standard based on the final 802.11i specification, was ratified this year by the IEEE. It offers AES-level encryption and faster roaming between access points. WPA2 also permits 802.1X authentication in either ad-hoc mode or traditional infrastructure networks, and accelerates re-authentication using key caching and pre-authentication techniques, Funk Software said.

The company identified a complete WPA2-based WLAN security solution as follows: the new Odyssey Client 3.1; an 802.1X-compatible Radius server, such as Funk's own Odyssey Server or Steel-Belted Radius; and WPA2-compatible WLAN equipment. Such a setup affords numerous enterprise safeguards, said the company, including authorized-user access control; complete credential (password or token) security over the wireless link when an authentication method such as EAP-TTLS is used; and protection of session data against wireless eavesdropping and other attacks.

Odyssey Client 3.1 also features support for Cisco's EAP-FAST and EAP-SIM WLAN protocols. The latter allows GSM operators to authenticate hotspot-using customers against their existing Subscriber Information Management-based infrastructure. In addition, Odyssey Client can now use Microsoft machine credentials to authenticate machines to the network when a user is not logged in, Funk Software said.

Odyssey Client 3.1 is compatible with Windows 98 and later, as well as Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC. It will be available in December, with prices starting at $50 per machine. A beta version of the software is currently available for download.