How do you integrate wireless security with your overall information assurance strategy and framework?

1 Define your wireless security scope

The first step is to define the scope of your wireless security, which includes identifying the types and locations of wireless devices, networks, and services that you use or provide. This will help you determine the level of risk and the applicable policies, standards, and regulations that you need to comply with. For example, you may have different wireless security requirements for your internal corporate network, your public Wi-Fi hotspot, and your mobile devices.

2 Assess your wireless security risks

The next step is to assess the risks that your wireless security faces, which may include unauthorized access, data theft, network interference, malware infection, or denial of service. You can use various tools and methods to conduct a wireless security assessment, such as network scans, penetration tests, vulnerability analysis, or threat modeling. The assessment should identify the strengths and weaknesses of your wireless security, as well as the potential impact and likelihood of each risk.

3 Implement your wireless security controls

The third step is to implement the appropriate wireless security controls to mitigate the risks that you have identified. Wireless security controls can be classified into three categories: technical, administrative, and physical. Technical controls are the hardware and software solutions that provide encryption, authentication, authorization, monitoring, and detection of wireless activities. Administrative controls are the policies and procedures that govern the use and management of wireless devices, networks, and services. Physical controls are the measures that protect the wireless equipment and infrastructure from theft, damage, or tampering.

4 Monitor and audit your wireless security performance

The fourth step is to monitor and audit your wireless security performance, which involves collecting and analyzing data on the wireless activities and events that occur on your network. This will help you measure the effectiveness of your wireless security controls, identify any anomalies or incidents, and verify your compliance with the relevant policies, standards, and regulations. You can use various tools and methods to monitor and audit your wireless security, such as logs, alerts, reports, or audits.

5 Review and update your wireless security strategy

The final step is to review and update your wireless security strategy, which involves evaluating the results of your monitoring and auditing activities, as well as the changes in the wireless environment, technology, or business needs. This will help you identify any gaps or issues in your wireless security, as well as any opportunities or improvements that you can implement. You should review and update your wireless security strategy periodically, or whenever there is a significant change in your wireless security scope, risk, or control.

By following these steps, you can integrate your wireless security with your overall information assurance strategy and framework, and ensure that your wireless network is secure, reliable, and compliant.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?