2018 Wi-Fi routers to get WPA3 wireless protection

Currently, most modern routers boast WPA2 wireless security protocol, but it seems that a replacement is inbound. Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) has actually been around for quite some time, but now might finally be coming into play on upcoming routers.

The news was announced by The Wi-Fi Alliance, comprised of tech corporations such as Intel, Microsoft and Qualcomm among others, with WPA3 boasting four new features to enhance security protection and accessibility for both personal and enterprise networks.

Two features, likely aimed at personal use, give greater protection to networks even when the chosen passwords “fall short of typical complexity recommendations,” and while no intricate details about the new method have been shared, this has been speculated to be a new kind of interaction between devices and networks.

The remaining two features focus on encryption, with one “strengthen[ing] user privacy in open networks through individualized data encryption,” and the other offering a stronger 192-bit security suite that aligns with the Commercial National Security Algorithm (CNSA) Suite from the Committee on National Security Systems, according to the Wi-Fi Alliance.

“Security is a foundation of Wi-Fi Alliance certification programs, and we are excited to introduce new features to the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED family of security solutions,” concludes Edgar Figueroa, president and CEO of Wi-Fi Alliance. “The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED designation means Wi-Fi devices meet the highest standards for interoperability and security protections.”

The technology is expected to arrive on shelves sometime this year, with prices varying wildly depending on the device.

KitGuru Says: This is certainly a welcome change as there are many security flaws that have been identified with the long-serving WPA2. Will you be upgrading to WPA3 when it hits retail?  

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