Wireless Access Schedule

A wireless access schedule could be configured on the wireless network controller to block access outside of normal working hours.

Control Type: Technical

Control Function: Preventive

Many organizations have a fixed set of hours outside of which no network activity is expected or allowed. In a standard organization, the hours are something like 8:00 through 5:00 on Mondays through Fridays. Even outside of these hours, the organization's network continues to run and can be accessed by anyone who can connect. Many SOHO routers and wireless access point controllers include an option to set a wireless access schedule. Administrators can configure the schedule to follow the organization's working hours, and wireless connectivity will be disabled outside of this set schedule. This can help reduce the wireless attack surface during a more vulnerable time in the organization when IT and security staff are not present. This control should be heavily considered by organizations located in crowded area where adversaries can easily park nearby and attempt to access the wireless network.