Compatible WEP algorithm for improved cipher strength and high-speed processing

Abstract

As a cipher algorithm of Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) networks based on IEEE 802.11b/g/h standards, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is widely used and can correspond to most Wi-Fi devices. However, the method of deciphering WEP has already been clarified and it is executed in several seconds. Nevertheless, a lot of Wi-Fi APs (Access Points) use it because a part of equipment has only WEP in the cipher function. Additionally, some mobile processors demand algorithm a cipher of low load. In this paper, the authors propose a compatible WEP algorithm to which cipher strength is strengthened. The algorithm is implemented with software and evaluated. As a result, it is shown that processing speed of the compatible WEP algorithm is more high-speed than that of the conventional WEP algorithm. © 2011 IEEE.