Glossary · Networking

PSK

Pre-shared Key

In plain language

The shared Wi-Fi password that everyone in the office types to join.

The metaphor

Like a single key cut for every tenant of the building: it works for everyone, and everyone who has a copy can pass it on.

Going deeper

How it works

The same password is used by all devices.
Anyone who knows it can join, and changing it means updating every device.
It is simple and fine for guest Wi-Fi.
Offices with many staff often move to individual sign-ins so a leaver does not take the key with them.

What can go wrong (example scenario)

A fifteen-month-old password was still the key to a six-person firm's staff Wi-Fi. Two former contractors, a cleaner and several visitors all knew it.

How WILDCARD handles it

Network covers the access points and the staff and guest Wi-Fi settings.

In practice

A shop prints the guest Wi-Fi password on a card at the till.
An office changes the shared password every time someone leaves.
A clinic gives guests a separate network with its own password.

A question owners ask

How often should I change the Wi-Fi password?

Change it whenever someone who knew it leaves, and set the guest password apart from the staff one.

Where WILDCARD handles this

Network

Firewall managed and monitored
Switches kept current
On-prem Active Directory auth

Start with Network

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