10 Best Automatic WiFi Security Providers – 2024

When looking for the best automatic WiFi security providers in 2024, it’s essential to focus on services that offer robust encryption, reliability, and a range of security features to protect against the myriad threats of using public WiFi hotspots.

Automatic WiFi Security refers to a technology or feature within security software and services, such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or specialized security applications, that automatically activates to protect a user’s data when they connect to an unsecured or public WiFi network.

This feature safeguards the user’s internet traffic from threats like eavesdropping, Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks, and other cyber attacks common on public WiFi networks.

Here’s a summary of notable providers and their offerings based on the current research done by team of security experts from Cyber Security News.

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What is Wi-Fi Security Software?

Wi-Fi security software aims to prevent attackers and other cybercriminals from accessing wireless networks. It protects data transfer with encryption methods like WPA2/WPA3 and blocks attacks from outside sources with firewalls.

To ensure that only authorized users connect to a network, monitoring programs keep an eye out for any questionable activities. Protect yourself from malware attacks by using antivirus and anti-malware software. VPNs improve anonymity when using public Wi-Fi by encrypting your data flow.

User identities are verified using authentication systems, which may include passwords and multi-factor authentication.

Wi-Fi security software’s comprehensive defense mechanism, which integrates these components, protects data integrity, confidentiality, and availability on wireless networks. To make it more successful, use strong passwords and change it regularly.

How Does Wireless Security Work?

A framework for securing wireless networks and the devices on them against intruders and other cyber dangers is known as wireless security.

To protect against data breaches, illegal access, and other harmful actions, it employs a mix of software and hardware technologies, tactics, and regulations. A simplified explanation of wireless security is as follows:

• Encryption: The foundation of wireless security, encryption encrypts data in transit so that only those with the correct decryption key can decode it. Wireless Protected Access (WPA2) and WPA3 are two protocols that offer robust encryption standards to prevent data eavesdropping.
• Authentication: Devices must authenticate themselves before they can access a wireless network. Passwords, digital certificates, or multiple-factor authentication may all be needed for this procedure. The purpose of authentication is to restrict network access to authorized people and devices.
• Access Control: To manage which devices can join to a wireless network, administrators can use access control lists (ACLs). One popular approach is MAC (Media Access Control) filtering, which ensures that only devices with authorized MAC addresses can connect to a network.
• Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Based on previously established security policies, firewalls inspect and manage all network traffic, both incoming and outgoing. Intrusion detection systems may identify and notify administrators of any unusual activity, which aids in the prevention of illegal access and attacks.
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs encrypt data as it travels from a device to the internet, making it more secure and less susceptible to eavesdropping. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Regular Updates and Patch Management: To be protected from the most recent vulnerabilities and attacks, it is essential to keep the firmware, security software, and linked devices of the wireless network updated

Types of Wireless Security Protocols

• WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy): With its introduction in 1997 as part of the initial 802.11 standards, WEP aimed to give wireless networks the same privacy and security as wired ones. However, with today’s hacking tools, WEP’s serious security holes are easy to exploit. It employs a static key that, if uncovered, grants attackers easy network access.
• WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access): The WPA protocol, which was developed as a temporary upgrade from WEP, incorporated TKIP, a kind of dynamic key encryption that changes encryption keys frequently. Despite being more secure than WEP, WPA with TKIP is still less secure than its successors due to its flaws.
• WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2): Substituting WPA with WPA2, which introduced support for the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), significantly improved network security. New devices wishing to use the Wi-Fi trademark were required to do so beginning in 2006. Although older versions of WPA have seen widespread use, WPA2 offers superior security for both data and network access management.
• WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3): The most recent security standard, WPA3, released in 2018, provides more robust cryptography. It improves security against offline dictionary attacks and offers new features, including simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE), which replaces WPA2’s Pre-Shared Key (PSK). Users on public networks are better protected with WPA3, which also provides forward secrecy.
• WPA2/WPA3 Transition Mode: In this mode, devices compatible with WPA3 can connect to networks compatible with WPA2. It facilitates a more straightforward upgrade to the safer WPA3 standard while ensuring backward compatibility.
• EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol): Although it is not a wireless security protocol in and of itself, EAP provides a framework within which other protocols may manage authentication. It allows various authentication methods to secure wireless networks, including certificates, smart cards, and usernames and passwords.

What are the Main Threats to Wi-Fi Security?

Unauthorized Access: Unauthorized individuals gaining access to your Wi-Fi network and potentially compromising your data or causing harm.

Sniffing: involves the unauthorized theft of sensitive information, such as emails and passwords, through a Wi-Fi network.

Man-in-the-middle attack: Two parties believe they are communicating directly, but an attacker is secretly intercepting and potentially altering their messages.

Introducing malicious packets into your network can lead to attacks or disruptions to regular operations.

Packet Injection: Unauthorized WiFi access points can deceive users into connecting by appearing like real networks. This enables the attackers to pilfer data.

Phishing Attacks: Utilize requests sent across the network that appear legitimate to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information.

How Do I Protect My Business Wi-Fi Network?

• Use the Latest Encryption: Verify that WPA3 or another up-to-date encryption standard is being used on your network. If WPA3 isn’t compatible, switch to WPA2.
• Change Default SSID and Passwords: You are highly recommended not to retain the default SSID or router admin credentials. Develop solid and one-of-a-kind passwords and update them frequently.
• Create a Guest Network: While at it, secure your leading company network by setting up a guest Wi-Fi network.
• Enable Network Segmentation: To protect sensitive data, divide the network into smaller sections using virtual local area networks (VLANs) or comparable technologies.
• Implement Strong Password Policies: Make users change their complicated passwords regularly and use them to access the network.
• Update Firmware Regularly: Always use the most recent updates for your Wi-Fi router and other network devices to prevent security holes.
• Enable Network Access Control (NAC): Apply security policies to devices connecting to the network using NAC.
• Monitor Network Activity: Be sure to scan your network for any suspicious behavior or devices regularly.

Best Automatic WiFi Security Features

Automatic WiFi Security Providers	Features
1. Perimeter 81	1. Offers Automatic Wi-Fi Security 2. Advanced encryption 3. Multi-factor authentication 4. Comprehensive network security, including DNS filtering and malware protection 5. Supports multiple platforms
2. Cisco Systems	1. Features Sentry WiFi Security for simplified EAP-TLS deployment 2. Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE) 3. Pre-Shared Keys and WPA2-Enterprise authentication 4. MAC-based access control 5. Guest Wi-Fi security
3. Fortinet	1. Provides advanced wireless features 2. High-density deployment capabilities 3. SAML authentication 4. Extensive wireless network configuration options 5. Firewall policies for SSID
4. Palo Alto Networks	1. Offers comprehensive network security across environments 2. Public cloud security 3. 5G security, cloud-delivered security services 4. Okyo Garde for work-from-home and small business security
5. Aruba Networks	1. Offers Zero Trust Security 2. SASE framework 3. AI-powered client visibility 4. Robust network access control with ClearPass 5. Dynamic segmentation for role-based access
6. Sophos	1. Offers synchronized security management 2. Scalable protection for wireless networks 3. Easy-to-use cloud management 4. Real-time threat prevention 5. Extensive reporting capabilities
7. WatchGuard Technologies	1. Provides strong encryption 2. Rogue detection for unauthorized access points 3. Firewall for wireless traffic 4. Integration with WatchGuard’s Total Security Suite 5. Cloud-based management
8. Ubiquiti	1. Features include advanced security protocols 2. Intuitive UniFi Network Controller for management 3. Guest network capabilities 4. Detailed analytics 5. Scalable deployment options.
9. Juniper Networks	1. Offers policy enforcement firewall 2. Unified access control, threat prevention 3. Cloud-delivered security management 4. Deep network visibility.
10. Meraki	1. Cloud-managed architecture 2. Auto-configuring wireless networks 3. High-density Wi-Fi capabilities 4. Built-in security and compliance features 5. Real-time network analytics.

Best Automatic WiFi Security Providers – 2024

• Perimeter 81
• Cisco Systems
• Fortinet
• Palo Alto Networks
• Aruba Networks
• Sophos
• WatchGuard Technologies
• Ubiquiti
• Juniper Networks
• Meraki

1. Perimeter 81

Perimeter 81 offers advanced Wi-Fi security features that surpass those of traditional VPNs.

The client applications ensure information security with 256-bit bank-grade encryption, allowing everyone on the other side to collaborate smoothly on public networks without concern.

In addition to Automatic Wi-Fi Security, Perimeter 81 includes a variety of cutting-edge features to ensure fast, reliable and secure network access across all connections. 

For the remote workforce, Perimeter 81, the top provider of automated Wi-Fi protection, removes the risks associated with using unprotected public Wi-Fi.

Feel secure working from any location with Perimeter 81’s automatic Wi-Fi security.

Forget about concerns regarding security threats like Man-in-the-Middle attacks, packet sniffing, and Evil Twin attacks. 

Ensures that all data is encrypted and offers workers security regardless of location.

This cutting-edge automatic wifi solution activates VPN protection when employees connect to unknown or potentially risky Wi-Fi, safeguarding their online activities for confidentiality and security.

When using unsecured Wi-Fi, links are automatically routed through Perimeter 81’s secure servers.

Features

• Emphasizes the importance of checking every connection attempt to the system before allowing access.
• It provides an approach to cloud-based network security; this model limits access to networks and makes them more controllable and secure.
• Ensures that devices connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks are automatically secured.
• Enhances protections by necessitating several kinds of authentication.
• Provides the option to set up private servers worldwide, boosting speed and safety.
• Provides an in-depth understanding of user actions and potential risks to network security through advanced activity monitoring and reporting.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Automatic protection with no logins or clunky configurations.	The free plan only covers one device
Manage all devices and users from a central dashboard	VPN-like encryption can slightly slow down internet speeds
Adapts to growing teams and changing needs	Doesn’t offer comprehensive protection against all online threats

Perimeter81 – Trial / Demo

2. Cisco Systems

Gain immediate insights to enhance the network and improve efficiency using artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Experience uninterrupted Wi-Fi 6/6E connectivity and IoT device categorization, segmentation, monitoring, and control. Enhance the wireless system effortlessly and tackle any unexpected challenges that arise.

Enjoy seamless deployment, cutting-edge management, and comprehensive visibility with Cisco Meraki.

Provide straightforward, high-quality access to small and midsize networks using Cisco Embedded Wireless Controllers.

Enable the staff and guests to connect quickly and safely to the Wi-Fi 6/6E network. Streamline, automate, and enhance the network experience—no matter where or when.

Features

• Provides an all-inclusive platform for managing and controlling security policies, allowing for secure network access by identifying users and devices.
• A security platform that streamlines the infrastructure’s visibility for better detection and faster responses.
• Detects malicious messages in encrypted traffic using machine learning without decryption.
• Automated network segmentation and policy enforcement with software-defined access, enhancing security posture.
• Enables multi-factor authentication for secure network access.
• Identifies potential dangers in a wireless network and takes steps to prevent them.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
MAB authentication is very customizable and easy to implement.	Can be expensive
Managing VPN access is more accessible.	Complex to set up and manage
Does an excellent job with wireless 802.11 authentication.

Cisco Systems – Trial / Demo

3. Palo Alto Networks

The platform offers a wide range of software features tailored for mobile networks.

Enabling MNOs to detect and prevent sophisticated cyberattacks aimed at connected devices strengthens security within their networks.

Service providers can enhance customer protection and improve operational efficiencies by utilizing the platform’s flexibility.

Managed security service providers can consistently enhance security effectiveness for clients through cutting-edge innovations.

Ensure a robust security strategy with complete visibility and precise control, automated and uniform security enforcement across all network locations.

Streamline operations with robust and proactive security measures and establish durable, high-quality mobile networks for a secure 5G digital economy.

Features

• Provides improved wireless security through tight integration with their next-generation firewall.
• Expanding the protection ensures safe access to the network, even for users located remotely.
• Detects and prevents sophisticated attacks using machine learning and AI.
• Protect against wireless security risks and unwanted access.
• Supports remote employees and satellite offices by integrating networking and security operations in the cloud.
• Maintains accurate security services to address new risks as they arise.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Mobile network cyber defense for linked devices.	Small enterprises may find the platform expensive.
MSSPs may quickly increase security with this extendable platform.	Organizations with minimal IT resources may struggle to set up and manage the platform.
Ensures IoT service deployment and network security.	The platform may lack firm-specific features.

Palo Alto Networks – Trial / Demo

4. Fortinet

Connecting to the Fortinet Security Fabric offers secure networking to the network’s edge.

Streamlined management for easier operations and reliable policy enforcement and compliance. Optimal features for the campus, SD-Branch, and remote workforce.

Adaptable deployment (indoors or outdoors) and management choices (FortiGate- or cloud-managed) Enhancing network security at the access layer by eliminating human reaction time.

Efficient and straightforward deployment eliminates the need for on-site technical assistance. Foundation included for SASE, enabling simple security deployment at network edges.

Setting up networks on campuses can be quite intricate. Utilizing FortiGate as a LAN controller helps IT minimize risk by combining networking and security functions.

Securely extend corporate network access to remote workers by deploying FortiAPs as remote APs.

Features

• Integrating with the wireless infrastructure provides improved threat protection.
• Provides safe wireless access points that work with FortiGate to ensure uniform security measures.
• It makes all network-connected devices fully visible, controllable, and responsive automatically.
• Controls all wireless LANs from a single location with the FortiGate interface.
• Segments network traffic automatically to ensure compliance and security.
• Backs up a high level of setups with scalable and secure solutions.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Easy to use and manage	Small businesses may pay more for Fortinet solutions.
Provides many services to maximize Fortinet products.	Some users may need technical help with setup.
safeguard the wireless network

Fortinet – Trial / Demo

5. Aruba Networks

With a single source of data and inherent infrastructure visibility over all users, devices, apps, and data, security-first, AI-powered networking simplifies networking and security operations without needing extra security layers.

Enhance network safety by implementing strong network policies that align with Zero Trust Security principles and the company’s needs, all while accommodating hybrid workplace strategies, IoT devices, and edge computing.

Regardless of how or where a user or device is connected, consistently apply and automatically enforce role-based access controls from edge to cloud to support Zero Trust and SASE security frameworks.

Putting security first, AI-driven networking amplifies human capabilities.

AI-powered operations empower teams with machine learning capabilities and comprehensive telemetry that collects data from all users, devices, and networks.

Features

• Secures and applies policies in real-time to wired and wireless traffic automatically.
• Provides policy control and visibility across all network connections, regardless of vendor, across wired, wireless, and VPN infrastructures.
• Tools for controlling Aruba access points, switches, controllers, and detailed visibility into Wi-Fi performance, are included.
• Detects and responds to sophisticated cyberattacks using analytics powered by artificial intelligence.
• It provides high-speed, encrypted Wi-Fi with cutting-edge capabilities, including RF optimization.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Starting the network with security can avoid breaches.	Implementing AI-powered networking is difficult and costly.
Security automation and visibility with AI save IT professionals time and resources.	AI might launch cyberattacks.
AI accelerates security threat identification and response, decreasing harm.	AI-powered networking requires knowledge from organizations.

Aruba Networks – Trial / Demo

6. Sophos

To manage the wireless network in addition to the firewalls, switches, endpoint and server security and operations, email protection, and other services, Sophos Central offers a single cloud platform.

All wireless network and access point setup, management, and configuration can be done remotely or on-site with Sophos Central, all at the convenience of any additional Sophos security products and services.

The local user interface provides a straightforward method to access an individual AP6 when you are on-site.

This is an excellent method for accessing system information or adjusting settings if you favor on-premises access.

Manage the whole Wi-Fi network in Sophos Central or adjust settings for individual access points in the local user interface.

Hardware resources might be a limitation for controller-based solutions on-premises. Expanding the system with Sophos Wireless is as easy as incorporating another access point.

Features

• It provides the Sophos Central platform with a straightforward and efficient method for managing and protecting wireless networks.
• Wireless security and all other Sophos products may be managed remotely.
• Integrates Sophos endpoints and firewalls to enhance security by sharing intelligence.
• Wi-Fi systems that are simple to set up and administer and can grow with your needs are available.
• Implements multi-factor authentication (MFA) to heighten network security.
• The ability to quickly handle security events through automated threat response and cleanup.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Centralized management for all Wi-Fi devices.	Can be expensive for small businesses.
Supports Wi-Fi 6/6E for better performance and security.	May require additional hardware.
Guest access and seamless roaming.	Some features may require a subscription.

Sophos – Trial / Demo

7. WatchGuard Technologies

Enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities in WatchGuard’s Unified Security Platform architecture provide robust network security and seamless information exchange across the WatchGuard security stack. 

Supervise the wireless networks with other WatchGuard solutions to ensure smooth management and a strong defense against malware, phishing, and data breaches. 

Subsequently enhances visibility by offering insights into network traffic and security incidents, including those associated with Wi-Fi networks.

Managing Wi-Fi and configuring networks in WatchGuard Cloud ensures secure wireless experiences that are simple to oversee. 

Policy management, zero-touch deployment, captive portals, VPN configuration, and upgrades are easily accessible with just a click. 

Connecting with other companies’ products enhances Wi-Fi security, expands customer reach, and fosters brand loyalty.

Features

• Provides an intuitive cloud-based platform with robust WIPS features for the effortless installation and administration of wireless networks.
• Protects against threats with robust encryption and rogue AP detection, among other security measures.
• Exceptional defense against wireless weaknesses and threats.
• With WatchGuard Dimension, you can see every action users take on your network.
• Automated response in real-time to detect dangers, reducing vulnerability.
• Accepts multi-factor authentication for improved network security.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Stronger network protection.	Small enterprises may find WatchGuard costly.
Easier management.	Some users find the interface difficult.
Integrates with other security products.	Reports of software faults and glitches exist.

WatchGuard Technologies – Trial / Demo

8. Ubiquiti

Hundreds of access points can be deployed and managed with their scalable and adaptable UniFi WiFi infrastructure. It’s simple to handle and can be managed from one central location.

Set up a dedicated network for guests with restricted access to the leading network. Organize your computer network into separate VLANs to enhance security by isolating traffic.

Ensure the security of the wireless system by utilizing the most up-to-date encryption protocols.

Secure the network by filtering traffic, blocking unwanted connections, and detecting/preventing malicious attacks.

Features

• Provides a unified platform for managing Wi-Fi, switching, and security devices as part of an enterprise-level, scalable network solution.
• Features include complex firewall settings, VLAN support, and guest network isolation.
• Famous for offering reasonably priced, high-performance networking gear, including access points, switches, and wireless networks,.
• Effortlessly manage your network’s devices with the help of the free UniFi Controller program.
• Provides versatile tools for managing guest portals and hotspots, ensuring secure access for guests.
• It allows for a more thorough network traffic analysis, improving security and monitoring.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Easy to manage.	It can be complex to set up.
Automatic security features.	Requires technical expertise.
Wide range of products.	Limited customer support.

Ubiquiti – Trial / Demo

9. Juniper Networks

To ensure performance, Juniper Mist employs cumulative SLE performance and data analytics to learn and optimize radio settings.

When the Juniper Mist cloud architecture identifies a significant problem, like an authorization failure, capture packets for troubleshooting.

The core causes of issues can be proactively found and fixed with the help of the Proactive Analytics and Correlation Engine (PACE).

The Wi-Fi Assurance service offers fundamental features for analyzing data over 30 days, making deriving network insights from enterprise data easier.

The WxLAN policy feature allows it to efficiently allocate and prioritize network resources, like servers and printers, to Wi-Fi users either by clicking a mouse or through preassigned policies.

Offers a highly scalable guest access solution with various features such as multiple language support, customizable branding, social login, external captive portal integration, and AAA/RADIUS integration.

Features

• Uses artificial intelligence to streamline Wi-Fi processes, enhance the user experience, and reveal how well the network is doing.
• Protects infrastructure, programs, and users by integrating network security.
• Uses several technologies, including machine learning, to identify and counteract threats as they happen.
• Implements network-wide policy enforcement at the user and application levels.
• Provides secure, reliable remote access solutions.
• Provides products that address the need for dependable and secure access in highly populated regions.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Being proactive in optimizing wireless performance.	can be costly to buy and implement.
Utilizing dynamic packet capture for troubleshooting purposes.	Setup and management might be difficult.
Identifying the root cause proactively.	This may require hiring expert staff to manage.
Automating networks using APIs.

Juniper Networks – Trial / Demo

10. Meraki

The device authenticates with the RADIUS server as an authentication server using an EAP method set up on either the RADIUS server or Meraki cloud.

Using a personal or pre-shared key (PSK) for authentication grants access to the wireless network to anyone with the key. Open mode enables any device to join the wireless network without encryption.

Due to the Internet of Things (IoT), there has been a significant rise in the number of devices now connecting to the internet.

It enables it to set up multiple passwords for a single SSID and allocate distinct group policies to each password on the Meraki Dashboard without setting up and managing a RADIUS server.

Users can integrate RADIUS servers to manage and authenticate IPSK during user authentications with IPSK.

Offers a Wi-Fi Personal Network (WPN) solution that utilizes identity PSK authentication without RADIUS. 

It addresses the challenges by dividing the wireless network per user and ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Features

• Provides a full suite of networking services, including Wi-Fi, switching, security, and more, all managed by the cloud.
• Simplifies configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting by providing centralized management for all network devices.
• Intrusion prevention, content filtering, and an integrated Layer 7 firewall are all part of it.
• Reduces interference and adjusts signal intensity automatically to maximize Wi-Fi performance.
• Provides information about the Wi-Fi network’s users and the number of people using it.

What is Good?	What Could Be Better?
Offers a wide range of security features	WEP is not recommended, and WPA3 is required for 6 GHz.
That is easy to use and manage.	Features can be expensive.
effective in protecting against a variety of threats.	may not be suitable for all businesses.

Meraki – Trial / Demo

Conclusion

In the modern day of continuous connectivity, automatic WiFi security providers provide essential protection for wireless networks from advanced cyber threats.

Companies like Perimeter81, Cisco, and Fortinet offer various services that organizations can use to safeguard their data and users, from advanced threat detection to Zero Trust implementation.

When selecting a supplier, organizations should consider their unique security concerns and particular needs. The importance of these providers is rising in parallel with the dependence on cellular communication.

By utilizing their innovative security solutions, you can easily safeguard your digital assets and build an operational framework that can withstand changing cyber threats.

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