Wireless Security Architecture

CHAPTER 1Introduction to Concepts and Relationships

Before we dive in to the how-to, I want to introduce some concepts at a high level and explain the relationships among them so there's at least a baseline context moving through the subsequent chapters.

The overview here will look at the roles and responsibilities of the various technical teams involved in wireless architecture and security, then touch on basic security concepts that will be referenced throughout this book, and after that will cover some key foundational wireless concepts.

Since this book is written for a variety of technology professionals, some of you will have deep knowledge in one or more areas, and others may be looking to fill some gaps. The following sections serve to get us all on the same level of understanding and taxonomy, so we have a common starting point for the architecture conversations that follow.

NOTE While this chapter introduces concepts that will be referenced in the context of wireless security, the terms and constructs here transcend wireless or even network security topics. I've purposefully avoided confounding textbook-style definitions and tried to maintain a focus on the application of the definitions within the scope of this book's content.

First, we'll look at the roles and responsibilities of various people and teams within the organization, how they may relate to your wireless security architecture, and what to do if that person or role is nonexistent in your organization. ...