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The process that uses a shared secret key to authenticate a wireless station is shared key authentication. This method involves the use of a predetermined key that both the wireless client and the access point (AP) possess. When the client attempts to connect to the network, it uses this secret key to prove its identity to the access point. The access point challenges the client by sending a nonce (a randomly generated number) and expects the client to encrypt a response using the shared secret key. If the response is valid and correctly encrypted, the access point can confirm the client's identity.

In contrast, other methods such as WPA2 Enterprise authentication typically rely on a more complex system of user credentials and certificates rather than a simple shared key mechanism. Open system authentication does not involve any key or password, allowing any device to connect as long as it's within range, which does not ensure security. WEP authentication also uses a shared key, but it is outdated and vulnerable to various forms of attacks, making it less secure than shared key authentication. Therefore, the definition of shared key authentication aligns directly with the process of using a shared secret key for authenticating wireless stations.