WPA2 and WPS IE update for Win XP SP2

NEW DELHI: Software giant Microsoft has recently announced the release of Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2)/Wireless Provisioning Services Information Element (WPS IE) update for Windows XP Service pack2.

According to the Microsoft site "The update supports the additional mandatory security features of the IEEE 802.11i standard that are not already included for products that support WPA. Additionally, after you install the update, Windows XP will display previously hidden Service Set Identifiers (SSIDs) in the Choose A Wireless Network dialog box. This functionality makes it easier for you to connect to public Wi-Fi networks to which you have not previously connected."

By offering support for Wi-Fi Alliance certification, this update can enhance the Windows XP wireless client software. With this update installed machines running Windows XP SP2 can easily connect to secure public spaces or Wi-Fi hotspots, as they are more commonly know.

What is WPA2?

Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is a product certification available through the Wi-Fi Alliance, it replaces Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and the other security features of the original IEEE 802.11 standard. This certification supports the additional mandatory security features of the IEEE 802.11i standard that are not already included for products that support WPA.

The WPS IE is a newly defined 802.11 information element that solves the hidden SSID problem for WISPs. The WPS IE also provides a way for wireless access points to advertise additional SSIDs in the broadcast Beacon and Probe Request frames.

For more information on this update and downloading it click here.