Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack
Tags: cybersecurity, wifi, attack, network
Published: 2024-02-20 08:00:14

**Wi-Fi Deauthentication** attack is a special technique used to disrupt or suppress wireless network connectivity by sending fake deauthentication frames to target devices. This is a form of cyber attack that exploits weaknesses in the Wi-Fi protocol to force a user off the network without their consent. Given that deauthentication attacks can be used to compromise a network, it is important to understand the risks associated with these attacks and learn how to mitigate them to ensure network security.

A Wi-Fi deauthentication attack uses a feature of the **802.11** standard that allows devices to be disconnected from the network. The attacker spoofs deauthentication frames with the source address of an access point (AP) or device already connected to the network. When these frames are transmitted to the device, it disconnects from the network. There are several variants of a deauthentication attack that can be used to compromise one or more devices. During this type of attack, the attacker can target a specific device or access point to attack. To do this, you need to know the target MAC address.

In many cases, Wi-Fi deauthentication attacks use both special equipment and software, the capabilities of which are quite large. In addition, using hardware and software capabilities, an attacker can perform a Probe and Beacon attack on the desired network to gain additional capabilities to take over the wireless network.


![Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/m4cfa3ik1vvsn6vxz8bx.PNG)

Deauthentication frames are an important part of the Wi-Fi protocol. However, in many cases these packages are vulnerable. This means that any Wi-Fi device could theoretically generate a packet that would disrupt or block the connection to the Wi-Fi network.

The motives behind Wi-Fi deauthentication attacks vary. An attacker can use this attack to jam a wireless network and disable the Internet for all devices. Additionally, this attack can be used to perform another, more complex attack, such as a **MITM** (Man In The Middle) attack. In any case, this type of attack is carried out with the goal of suppressing a wireless network or limiting the Internet connection for a specific user.


![Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/muy43m8f0dmfl1fcutdm.png)

![Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0vykwrkpb08fezmiu2m2.png)

The images show that the Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack involves scanning the wireless network to detect active devices and access points. Once the target is selected, a deauthentication attack is performed.

![Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/5rccksj0tgo27w1ca70w.PNG)

The target of the Wi-Fi deauthentication attack is selected and represents an access point. Any device connected to the access point will lose connection to it.

## Protection against Wi-Fi Deauthentication attack

Such an attack can be detected and repelled in various ways. For example, you can use wireless intrusion detection and prevention systems (WIDS/WIPS). These systems monitor Wi-Fi traffic, analyze packet behavior, and detect anomalies that indicate deauthentication attacks. Once detected, appropriate measures can be taken to mitigate the threat and protect end users.

Another mechanism to protect against Wi-Fi deauthentication attacks is the use of **802.11w** and **WPA3** standards. The advantage of the 802.11w standard is the use of **Protected Management Frames**. It provides encryption and authentication for deauthentication frames, making them more resistant to various types of hacking. However, this standard is not supported by all devices and networks. In addition, compatibility issues may arise. You need to check whether the end devices and network infrastructure support 802.11w and WPA3.

While a Wi-Fi deauthentication attack can disrupt network connectivity and potentially lead to more serious security breaches, organizations can take immediate steps to mitigate these risks. The introduction of technologies such as **WIDS/WIPS**, strong authentication and encryption, network segmentation, IDS/IPS and continuous monitoring, 802.11w and WPA3 standard allows for a high level of network security. Analysis of new threats and implementation of best security practices ensure timely detection and elimination of all possible attack vectors. It is necessary to respond to such incidents in a timely manner so that confidential information or personal user data does not leak during a Wi-Fi deauthentication attack.