The network element must protect wireless access to the system using Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS)-validated Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) block cipher algorithms with an approved confidentiality mode.

Allowing devices and users to connect to the system without first authenticating them allows untrusted access and can lead to a compromise or attack. Because wireless communications can be intercepted, encryption must be used to protect the confidentiality of information in transit. Wireless technologies include, for example, microwave, packet radio (UHF/VHF), 802.11x, and Bluetooth. Wireless networks use authentication protocols (e.g., Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP)/Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Protected EAP [PEAP]), which provide credential protection and mutual authentication. This requirement applies to operating systems that control wireless devices. A block cipher mode is an algorithm that features the use of a symmetric key block cipher algorithm to provide an information service, such as confidentiality or authentication. AES is the FIPS-validated cipher block cryptographic algorithm approved for use in the DOD. For an algorithm implementation to be listed on a FIPS 140-2/140-3 cryptographic module validation certificate as an approved security function, the algorithm implementation must meet all the requirements of FIPS 140-2/140-3 and must successfully complete the cryptographic algorithm validation process. Currently, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has approved the following confidentiality modes to be used with AES: ECB, CBC, OFB, CFB, CTR, XTS-AES, FF1, FF3, CCM, GCM, KW, KWP, and TKW. Satisfies: SRG-NET-000070, SRG-NET-000151