TurboCell Authentication

Wireless system authentication is one of the most important features available in TurboCell. Most wireless systems have a "shared secret" form of authentication, in which every node in the wireless network has a matching pass phrase. This system works well in a controlled environment, in which only administrators have access to wireless station configuration (such as outdoor Point-to-Multipoint environments). However, in large public access networks, these models are not enough to provide security.

KarlNet realizes the inherent vulnerability in these forms of authentication for large networks and has made revolutionary improvements in the TurboCell security model. First of all, wireless PC clients are locked in to a particular System Access Pass Phrase by their TurboCell License Number. This discourages the changing of Pass Phrases by wireless clients, since a change in pass phrase without a parallel change in license number will cause their station to cease to connect with any other station.

KarlNet is also making major improvements in wireless client authentication and management, most notably securing wireless station authentication by MAC address, and user authentication by CHAP username and password. Both of these authentication schemes is capable of making use of a centralized RADIUS authentication server for centralized user and station management. The release date for station and user authentication to RADIUS is scheduled for the first quarter of 2000.

In addition to the methods mentioned above, KarlNet is performing additional research into authenticating the ISP Base Station to wireless clients, to ensure that the user is connecting to a trusted base station.