Wireless access is quickly broadening network reach by providing convenient, inexpensive access in hard-to-wire locations. As networks expand beyond physical boundaries, operators are struggling to retain control over network usage and privacy.

Jupiter Research set out to determine how wireless local area networks (WLANs) based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards for 802.11 Wi-Fi technologies are being secured, now and in the future. Survey participants were recruited from Jupitermedia's internet.com and EarthWeb.com networks. Respondents indicating that they currently operate or plan to introduce WLAN access at their primary place of employment were invited to participate in our online survey. In this study, we analyze the results of this survey, as gathered from over 300 qualified respondents.

This study reveals how many early adopters have deployed WLANs without adequately securing them and the real-life consequences of doing so. We consider how perceived security risks and business requirements in vertical industries like communications, manufacturing, education, healthcare and financial services influence WLAN deployment plans and how these perceived security risks impact market growth. We examine how 802.11 adopters are anticipating deployment of emerging security enhancements. Finally, we consider how traditional network security measures are being applied in new ways to secure WLAN access to small business, enterprise, and service provider networks.