802.11i MAC Functions
=======================


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        **What are MAC functions in IEEE 802.11i?**

        MAC functions in 802.11i handle secure frame delimiting, addressing, and error checking with enhanced security features.

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        **How does 802.11i enhance MAC layer security?**

        By implementing encryption (AES-CCMP), key management, and secure authentication within MAC frame processing.

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        **What role does MAC play in key management in 802.11i?**

        MAC layer manages key distribution via the 4-way handshake and group key handshake protocols.

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        **Does 802.11i MAC support fragmentation?**

        Yes, the MAC layer supports fragmentation and reassembly of encrypted frames for efficient transmission.

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        **How does MAC handle authentication in 802.11i?**

        It processes secure authentication messages, including EAPOL frames during authentication and association.

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        **What is the MAC layer’s role in encryption in 802.11i?**

        The MAC layer encrypts and decrypts data payloads using AES-CCMP to secure wireless frames.

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        **How are management frames handled securely by MAC in 802.11i?**

        MAC supports Protected Management Frames (PMF) to safeguard management communications from attacks.

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        **Does 802.11i MAC support QoS features?**

        Yes, MAC integrates with QoS extensions like 802.11e to prioritize secure traffic.

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        **How does MAC coordinate with PHY for security in 802.11i?**

        MAC controls frame formatting and timing to ensure secure data is transmitted correctly at the PHY layer.

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        **What mechanisms does MAC use to detect errors in 802.11i?**

        It uses CRC checks on encrypted frames to verify integrity and detect tampering.

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        **How does MAC handle retransmissions in 802.11i?**

        It manages retransmissions securely while maintaining data confidentiality and integrity.

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        **Are there MAC functions related to power management in 802.11i?**

        Yes, MAC coordinates power-saving modes while ensuring secure connection maintenance.

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        **How is sequence control handled by MAC in 802.11i?**

        MAC uses sequence numbers to prevent replay attacks and maintain frame order.

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        **Does MAC layer control access to the medium in 802.11i?**

        Yes, MAC continues to use CSMA/CA with added security checks before transmission.

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        **How does MAC manage acknowledgments in 802.11i?**

        Secure acknowledgments confirm receipt of encrypted frames.

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        **What changes did 802.11i introduce to MAC frame formats?**

        Added RSN information elements and fields to support security features.

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        **How does MAC ensure interoperability in 802.11i?**

        By standardizing security processes and frame formats across vendors.

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        **Does MAC handle encrypted multicast/broadcast frames in 802.11i?**

        Yes, group key handshakes and encryption protect multicast traffic.

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        **What role does MAC play in intrusion prevention in 802.11i?**

        It helps detect frame anomalies and unauthorized access attempts via secure protocols.


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        Topics in this section,

                * :ref:`Reference links <mac_functions_i_step17>`

.. _mac_functions_i_step17:

.. tab-set::

    .. tab-item:: Reference links

       * Reference links