Network Defense Essentials (NDE) Practice Exam

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What authentication method allows connection to an access point without verifying the user or device requesting access?

  1. Shared key authentication

  2. Open system authentication

  3. Mutual authentication

  4. Pre-shared key authentication

The correct answer is: Open system authentication

Open system authentication is a method that allows a device to connect to an access point without verifying the user's identity or the device itself. In this scenario, the access point does not require any credentials or certificates; it simply accepts any connection request from a client device. This method is commonly used in scenarios where access to the network is meant to be freely available, such as in public Wi-Fi hotspots. The lack of verification means that while open system authentication facilitates easy access, it also poses significant security risks, as unauthorized users can connect and potentially access network resources. This approach contrasts with other methods that implement various authentication mechanisms, establishing a level of trust between users and devices before allowing network access.