What vulnerability is common in PSK that leads to security risks?

What vulnerability is common in PSK that leads to security risks?

• A. Static keys that can be easily guessed
• B. Automatic key updating feature
• C. No password requirement
• D. High encryption standard

Answer: (A)

The common vulnerability in Pre-Shared Key (PSK) setups that leads to security risks stems from the use of static keys that can be easily guessed. When a PSK is implemented, it relies on a shared secret, typically a password or passphrase, that must be entered by all users trying to access the network. If the key chosen is weak, such as being too simple or easily guessable (like "password123"), it becomes vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Attackers can systematically try various combinations to crack the key, thus gaining unauthorized access to the network. In contrast, features such as automatic key updating or high encryption standards enhance security by either regularly changing access credentials or providing stronger protections against unauthorized access. Similarly, a no-password requirement would imply an insecure setup rather than addressing vulnerabilities in a PSK. Therefore, the reliance on a static key, especially one that lacks complexity, poses significant security risks in environments using PSK.

The common vulnerability in Pre-Shared Key (PSK) setups that leads to security risks stems from the use of static keys that can be easily guessed. When a PSK is implemented, it relies on a shared secret, typically a password or passphrase, that must be entered by all users trying to access the network. If the key chosen is weak, such as being too simple or easily guessable (like "password123"), it becomes vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Attackers can systematically try various combinations to crack the key, thus gaining unauthorized access to the network.

In contrast, features such as automatic key updating or high encryption standards enhance security by either regularly changing access credentials or providing stronger protections against unauthorized access. Similarly, a no-password requirement would imply an insecure setup rather than addressing vulnerabilities in a PSK. Therefore, the reliance on a static key, especially one that lacks complexity, poses significant security risks in environments using PSK.