Data Security and Wireless Networks: Mutually Exclusive?

Overview

The increased use and popularity of wireless networks has seen their adoption in medical information systems. They provide the advantages of mobility and instant information availability. Since its inception, wireless has had problems with providing adequate security measures. This paper examines previous papers dealing with securing data in a wireless network for medical use, and analyses current wireless security measures. Measures listed by previous researchers were found to be unsatisfactory, with some of the current security methods also having problems. The conclusion is that wireless cannot be made completely secure, and should only be used where an absolute medical need, rather than one of convenience, can be demonstrated.