Understanding Wi-Fi security: SSID, WEP, WPA, WPA2, TKIP, and AES

Some newer Garmin® devices use the Wi-Fi® standard to wirelessly transfer data and perform software updates without a connection to a computer. The Wi-Fi standard encompasses many terms and acronyms that may be encountered when configuring Wi-Fi on compatible Garmin devices. These terms are listed and explained below:

SSID

• The SSID is the network name that is broadcast from the wireless router. This is the name that appears automatically when configuring Wi-Fi on compatible Garmin devices. Some wireless routers can be configured to not broadcast the network name, and the network name must be manually entered when configuring Wi-Fi on the compatible Garmin device.

WEP, WPA, WPA2

• These are wireless security standards used to protect unauthorized access to the network by requiring a password to connect to the network. When configuring the compatible Garmin device, this setting must exactly match the security type and password (case-sensitive).

• WPA2 Enterprise and some public networks require the user to agree to a license agreement or enter a username and password to use the wireless connection. Garmin devices do not support these types of networks.

TKIP, AES

• These are also terms related to the security on wireless networks, and they are automatically set up when the proper WEP, WPA, or WPA2 type is configured.

The required SSID and security standard types are available from the manufacturer of the wireless router or the Internet Service Provider (ISP). Contact or visit the manufacturer or ISP's website for further instructions to determine the SSID and security standard types.