This document provides an overview of wireless networking technologies and wireless handheld devices
most commonly used in an office environment and with today’s mobile workforce. This document seeks
to assist agencies in reducing the risks associated with 802.11 wireless local area networks (LAN),
Bluetooth wireless networks, and handheld devices.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommends the following actions:
Agencies should be aware that maintaining a secure wireless network is an ongoing process that
requires greater effort than that required for other networks and systems. Moreover, it is
important that agencies assess risks more frequently and test and evaluate system security controls
when wireless technologies are deployed.