What does WPA2 use for encryption to ensure greater security compared to its predecessor?

WPA2 uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm for encryption, which significantly enhances security compared to its predecessor, WPA. AES is a symmetric encryption standard that operates on blocks of data, providing a robust level of protection for wireless communications. It was adopted as the encryption standard by the U.S. government and is considered secure due to its resistance to various forms of cryptographic attacks.

WPA, which utilized the TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) protocol, was designed to be a stopgap measure before transitioning to a more secure method like AES. TKIP and the associated encryption mechanisms were deemed to have vulnerabilities, leading to security concerns in wireless networks. By shifting to AES, WPA2 offers not only stronger encryption but greater overall network integrity.

While other options may relate to different aspects of wireless security, only the use of AES directly addresses the enhanced encryption methods that WPA2 employs. For instance, the Message Integrity Check ensures that packets are not altered during transmission, but it does not specify encryption. The RC4 algorithm, which is a stream cipher, is considered less secure and was primarily used in older protocols. Similarly, the 24-bit initialization vector is inadequate for robust encryption because it limits the key space, making it easier for potential