802.11i MAC Timings

What are MAC timings in IEEE 802.11i?

MAC timings define intervals for frame transmissions, acknowledgments, and security handshakes ensuring smooth, secure communication.

How does 802.11i affect standard MAC timing parameters?

It retains timings like SIFS, DIFS but incorporates timing for security handshakes such as the 4-way handshake.

What is the impact of 802.11i on the 4-way handshake timing?

The handshake occurs within defined MAC timing constraints to minimize connection delays while ensuring security.

Are there additional timers introduced by 802.11i?

Yes, timers govern key management retries and handshake timeouts to maintain security session integrity.

How do MAC timings help prevent replay attacks in 802.11i?

Timing windows and sequence number validation prevent replayed frames within specified intervals.

Does 802.11i affect the timing for acknowledgments (ACK)?

ACK timing remains consistent but is secured to confirm encrypted frame receipt.

How are retransmission timers managed in 802.11i?

Retransmission timers ensure encrypted frames are resent promptly if no acknowledgment is received.

What role do timers play in Protected Management Frames (PMF)?

Timers regulate retransmissions and response windows for secure management frame exchanges.

How is the timing for group key updates handled?

Group key update intervals are managed to ensure synchronized encryption keys across devices.

Does 802.11i influence power-save related timing?

Yes, power-save delivery timing accounts for security handshakes and frame encryption/decryption.

How does MAC timing coordination support fast roaming in 802.11i?

Timing parameters ensure quick re-authentication and key exchanges during roaming.

Are timing parameters configurable in 802.11i?

Some timing values can be adjusted by vendors but must comply with standard minimums for interoperability.

How does MAC timing affect encryption processing latency?

Timing ensures encryption and decryption happen within slots to maintain throughput without delay.

What happens if timing constraints are violated during handshake?

The handshake may time out, requiring retransmission or renegotiation to maintain security.

How are timing parameters standardized for interoperability?

They follow IEEE 802.11 MAC timing specifications augmented with 802.11i security processes.

Do timing parameters affect latency in secure communications?

Yes, security-related timing can introduce minimal latency but is optimized to minimize impact.

How are timing mechanisms tested for compliance in 802.11i?

Through certification labs verifying handshake timing, retransmission intervals, and response times.

Does 802.11i MAC timing support future security protocol enhancements?

Yes, the timing framework is extensible to support evolving security mechanisms.

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