MSM7xx Controllers Configuration Guide v6.4.0

The key is generated via the configured 802.1X authentication method. Therefore, when you
enable this option, the 802.1X authentication feature is automatically enabled.
• Static key: This is a static key that you must define.
◦ Key: The number of characters you specify for the key determines the level of encryption.
For 40-bit encryption, specify 5 ASCII characters or 10 HEX digits. For 128-bit encryption,
specify 13 ASCII characters or 26 HEX digits.
When encryption is enabled, wireless stations that do not support encryption cannot
communicate with the AP. The definition for each encryption key must be the same on
the AP and all client stations.
• Key format: Select the format used to specify the encryption key:
ASCII: ASCII keys are much weaker than carefully chosen HEX keys. You can include
ASCII characters between 32 and 126, inclusive, in the key. However, note that not all
◦
client stations support non-alphanumeric characters such as spaces, punctuation, or special
symbols in the key.
◦ HEX: Your keys should only include the following characters: 0-9, a-f, A-F
802.1X authentication
This option enables you to use 802.1X to authenticate wireless and wireless users. For configuration
details, see “Configuring 802.1X support on a VSC” (page 336).
130 Working with VSCs