256 bit WEP?

[wooglin]

After hitting my d-link 614+ with a firmware update, I noticed that now there is a 256bit encryption available.

Other than having to write down and enter a really long key now, is there any performance disadvantage to using 256bit?

Unless I'm working for NASA or the DoD, is there any real advantage to making use of the 256bit encryption?

 

[tharder]

I'd have to think there is going to be some sort measurable hit because your wep key is now double in size. It will depend on how busy your network is as to whether you'll notice it or not.....

Is your nic a dlink and have the 256bit / 22mb wireless option?

 

[wooglin]

As I understand it, it's only 22mbps if you have the compatible dlink card on the laptop end. Alas, I have the toshiba built in wireless which is only 11mbps.

 

[tharder]

Unless you are planning on using DoD information 128bit should be more than enough. Yes it can be cracked; you have to be pretty determined to do so. We have played a bit with sniffers and crackers. It's not as easy as a lot of rags make it out to be.

 

[tharder]

If you have WPA and TKIP compliant devices that's the way to go.

 

[Davetoo]

The article that you reference britna21 says that for W2K users, they'll have to obtain the update from the provider of their network equipment in order to take advantage of WPA-TKIP:

For wireless clients running Windows 2000 (or clients running Windows XP SP1 or Windows Server 2003 and using a wireless network adapter that does not support the Wireless Zero Configuration service), you must obtain and install a new WPA-compliant configuration tool from your wireless network adapter vendor.

I'm Certifiable, not certified.
It just means my answers are from experience, not a book.

 

[luv2skyout]

I suggest you read the research at

http://www.isaac.cs.berkeley.edu/isaac/wep-faq.html

and decide for yourself. It really depends on what traffic you are sending and what the down side is to potentially having someone sniff the data or inject data into your network.