Rapid Attack Protection

Rapid Attack Protection (RAP) in wireless security focuses on quickly identifying and mitigating
threats in wireless networks to ensure the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of network
resources. This approach is essential for dealing with the unique challenges posed by wireless
environments, such as increased vulnerability to attacks and the need for real-time responses.
However, it also stands for military tactic. R – Reconnaissance (gather information about the target) A
– Assault (quickly and decisively attack the target) Protection (secure the target and protect against
counterattacks). This tactic is designed to quickly and effectively neutralize a treat, while minimizing
risks to friendly forces. The RAP tactic is often use in special operations, counter-terrorism and rapid
response situations. RAP has been adapted and applied to various fields, including cyber security
where it is refers to the rapid detection response and protection against cyber threats. Here’s a detailed
look at how RAP can be implemented in wireless security:
1. Rapid Threat Detection
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) - Deploy IDS solutions designed for wireless networks to monitor
for suspicious activities and anomalies. These systems can detect unauthorized access, rogue devices,
hackers, malicious actors and unusual traffic patterns.
Anomaly Detection - Implement anomaly detection systems that analyze traffic patterns and
behaviors. Any deviation from normal patterns, such as unexpected spikes in traffic or unauthorized
access attempts, can trigger alerts.
Wireless Network Monitoring - Use network monitoring tools that continuously scan for security
threats, including rogue access points, unauthorized devices, and misconfigured settings.
Behavioral Analysis - Analyze the behavior of devices on the network to detect signs of compromise
or malicious activity. For example, unusual communication patterns or high data transfer rates can
indicate a potential attack.
EXAMPLES: Leading IDS and IPS Solutions (Unranked)

 AIDE
 BluVector Cortex
 Check Point Quantum IPS
 Cisco NGIPS
 Fail2Ban
 Fidelis Network
 Hillstone Networks
 Kismet
 NSFOCUS
 OpenWIPS-NG
 OSSEC
 Palo Alto Networks
 Sagan
  Samhain
 Security Onion
 Semperis
 Snort
 SolarWinds Security Event Manager (SEM) IDS/IPS
 Suricata
 Trellix (McAfee + FireEye)
 Trend Micro
 Vectra Cognito
 Zeek (AKA: Bro)
 ZScalar Cloud IPS

Detection methods
The majority of intrusion prevention systems utilize one of three detection methods: signature-based,
statistical anomaly-based, and stateful protocol analysis.
1. Signature-based detection: Signature-based IDS monitors packets in the Network and
compares with pre-configured and pre-determined attack patterns known as signatures.
While it is the simplest and most effective method, it fails to detect unknown attacks and
variants of known attacks.
2. Statistical anomaly-based detection: An IDS which is anomaly-based will monitor
network traffic and compare it against an established baseline. The baseline will identify
what is "normal" for that network – what sort of bandwidth is generally used and what
protocols are used. It may however, raise a False Positive alarm for legitimate use of
bandwidth if the baselines are not intelligently configured. Ensemble models that use
Matthew’s correlation co-efficient to identify unauthorized network traffic have obtained
99.73% accuracy.
3. Stateful protocol analysis detection: This method identifies deviations of protocol states by
comparing observed events with "pre-determined profiles of generally accepted definitions of
benign activity". While it is capable of knowing and tracing the protocol states, it requires
significant resources.

2. Rapid Mitigation
Automated Response Systems - Implement automated systems that can respond to detected threats by
taking actions such as isolating affected devices, blocking malicious traffic, or disabling compromised
access points.
Dynamic Access Control - Use dynamic access control policies that adjust based on real-time threat
assessments. For example, if a device is detected as compromised, access can be automatically
restricted or revoked.
Fast Reconfiguration - Ensure that network configurations, such as encryption keys and security
protocols, can be rapidly updated in response to emerging threats. This helps mitigate vulnerabilities
quickly.
Incident Response Plans - Develop and regularly update incident response plans that outline
procedures for dealing with different types of wireless security incidents. Ensure that these plans
include steps for rapid mitigation and recovery.
3. Enhanced Security Measures
Encryption - Use strong encryption protocols (such as WPA3) to protect wireless communications
from eavesdropping and unauthorized access. Ensure encryption keys are regularly updated.
Authentication - Implement robust authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized devices from
connecting to the network. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) can enhance security.
Rogue AP Detection - Deploy tools to detect and locate rogue access points that may be attempting to
intercept or disrupt network communications.
Device Management - Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) or similar solutions to manage and
secure devices connecting to the wireless network. Ensure that only authorized and compliant devices
are allowed.
4. Monitoring and Reporting
Real-Time Alerts - Configure real-time alerts for critical security events. Ensure that network
administrators are notified immediately when a potential threat is detected.
Logging and Analysis - Enable detailed logging of network activity and security events. Regularly
analyze logs to identify trends, detect potential threats, and improve security measures.
Regular Audits - Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address
potential weaknesses in the wireless network.
Intrusion prevention systems can be classified into four different types:
Network-based intrusion prevention system (NIPS): monitors the entire network for suspicious
traffic by analyzing protocol activity.
Wireless intrusion prevention system (WIPS): monitor a wireless network for suspicious traffic by
analyzing wireless networking protocols.
Network behavior analysis (NBA): examines network traffic to identify threats that generate unusual
traffic flows, such as distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, certain forms of malware and
policy violations.
Host-based intrusion prevention system (HIPS): an installed software package which monitors a
single host for suspicious activity by analyzing events occurring within that host.

5. Best Practices
Network Segmentation - Segment the wireless network to limit the impact of a potential attack. For
example, separate guest networks from internal business networks to contain potential threats.
Patch Management - Regularly update firmware and software for all wireless network devices to
address known vulnerabilities and improve security.
User Education - Educate users about wireless security best practices, such as recognizing phishing
attempts and using strong, unique passwords.
Policy Enforcement - Enforce security policies consistently across the wireless network. Ensure that
security configurations and protocols are applied uniformly to all access points and devices.
The Network’s resilience against attacks can be enhanced by implementing the RAP strategies in
wireless security. It helps minimize potential damage and maintain a secure wireless environment.
The integrity, availability and confidentiality. Regular updates and ongoing vigilance are key to
adapting to new threats and ensuring robust protection.

References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intrusion_detection_system
https://chatgpt.com/
https://www.clearnetwork.com/top-intrusion-detection-and-prevention-systems/