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Future Developments in FreeBSD WLAN: A Deep Dive into 802.11 Standards and Atheros Support

Explore the future of WLAN support in FreeBSD, focusing on the integration of multi-mode devices and the advancements in Atheros technology. With an emphasis on enhancing security mechanisms like 802.1x and WPA, this discussion highlights the drive for improved wireless solutions for developers and users alike. Key industry players such as Intersil, Broadcom, Atheros, and Intel are shaping the landscape, and we examine current support, challenges, and the roadmap for bridging and QoS enhancements. Join us as we navigate the evolving WLAN ecosystem.

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Future Developments in FreeBSD WLAN: A Deep Dive into 802.11 Standards and Atheros Support

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  1. FreeBSD WLAN Futures Sam Leffler Errno Consulting sam@errno.com

  2. Current FreeBSD WLAN Support • 802.11b only • Most users use Intersil-based devices (wi driver) • Netbsd 802.11 layer for non-station mode • No integrated support for 802.1x or other security mechanisms

  3. Realworld WLAN Support • Multi-mode devices (11a/b, 11b/g, 11a/b/g) • Commodity products ($100 for AP, $50 for Cardbus card) • Main players are: Intersil, Broadcom, Atheros • Intel wants a piece of the pie (Centrino)

  4. FreeBSD WLAN Futures • Atheros support in the works for 6+ months • Extend security mechanism in base system (802.1x, WPA) • Provide functionality wireless developers want (AP, mesh networks, community wireless)

  5. Atheros Support • Device driver • Hardware Access Layer (HAL) to support all Atheros devices (5210, 5211, 5212, etc.) • 802.11 layer rewrite for multi-mode devices • Minor ifconfig, et. al. mods Only BSD system with a/b/g support

  6. WLAN Security • 802.1x is “last generation technology” but necessary • Authenticator • Supplicant • Flawed • WPA is “current technology” • Michael+TKIP instead of WEP • 802.1x + EAP/TLS (or EAP/SSL) • Will morph into standard fare (802.11i)

  7. Other Functionality • Good embedded development environment • QOS/802.1q (?) support for applications like streaming video (Wi-Fi phones) • Better bridging support: STP, encrypted neighbor links • WDS • Power-save mode

  8. “The Plan” • Intersil and other firmware-based devices are dead ends; Atheros is the future • Too few people, too much work; promote cooperation • Other BSD groups are minor players; leverage cross-development with Linux

  9. Status • Atheros driver close to production quality • 802.11 multi-mode functionality mostly done (11g support to be completed) • 802.11 rewrite 65% done

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