MAC layer security measures in local area networks

Abstract

In many organisations, local area networks (LANs) now form an indispensable part of the data communications structure. In larger organisations there will typically be a number of LANs serving different geographical or functional parts of the organisation which will be connected by bridges or gateways. This paper examines some of the threats to be found in this environment, and explores ways in which they may be countered at the MAC level. Such MAC level measures are generally only a stop-gap until security standards exist and are implemented widely at the relevant protocol levels.