Lesson Plan

• Describe the vulnerabilities of WEP and the security improvements introduced by WPA.
• Apply configuration steps to set up WEP and WPA‑PSK on a wireless router.
• Evaluate wireless security settings using a checklist and recommend enhancements for a small‑business scenario.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Laptop with Wi‑Fi router admin access (or simulated interface)
• Printed handout of WEP/WPA comparison table
• Worksheet with configuration checklist
• Sample SSID and passphrase cards
• Internet connection for demonstration

Begin with a quick poll: Who has ever connected to a public Wi‑Fi network? Remind students that wireless signals extend beyond walls, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping. Explain that today they will explore why WEP is insecure and how WPA protects a network, and they will leave able to configure a secure wireless LAN.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students list three reasons wireless networks need protection on sticky notes; share briefly. (Engage)
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain WEP architecture, key/IV weaknesses, using slides and diagram. (Explain)
3. Guided demo (12') – Show router admin interface; walk through WEP configuration steps; students follow on their laptops. (Apply)
4. Interactive comparison (8') – Compare WEP vs WPA using the comparison table; discuss integrity and key management. (Analyze)
5. WPA‑PSK configuration activity (12') – Students configure WPA‑PSK on a test router, choose a strong passphrase, select TKIP/AES. (Apply)
6. Security checklist challenge (8') – In pairs, use the provided checklist to audit the configured network and suggest improvements for a small‑business scenario. (Evaluate)
7. Exit ticket (5') – Write one key difference between WEP and WPA and one action to improve wireless security. (Reflect)

Summarise that WEP is obsolete and WPA (preferably WPA2/AES) provides dynamic keys and integrity checks. Ask students to submit their exit tickets and remind them to complete the homework worksheet, which asks them to design a secure wireless setup for a home office. Reinforce that regular firmware updates and strong passphrases are essential.