Nowadays, the Internet is almost the most common thing. You can connect to the network almost anywhere and at any time. Sometimes there are even too many access points, which can be a problem when trying to connect to a particular access point. Connecting to a low-security hotspot can lead to a data leak, and if you need to connect to the internet for business purposes and more importantly have confidential information, you don’t want to do that. However, sometimes when you aren’t in the office, we need to get online. To do this securely, you can use CTS.
How to explain what CTS stand for
The CTS stands for Clear to Send. This is the name given to the security mode. The function of this mode is that it helps to connect to a particular router over a wireless network. This is extremely useful when there are many other communication devices/users around. More details about this are below.
How to explain difference between router and WAP
Before you get into a more detailed explanation of what the CTS does, you need to understand the difference between a router and a WAP. A router is a network element responsible for decrypting and routing data packets. A WAP is an alternative to wires. WAP allows computers to connect wirelessly and provides a degree of mobility for the user. A device that only supports WAP cannot act in the same capacity, and it still needs a router to do so.
CTS Protection Mode explained
In case there are many routers in one place and CTS mode is disabled, it can be impossible for devices trying to connect to them or when there are many devices trying to connect to one router. The point is that when trying to connect outside this mode, the devices, instead of connecting one by one, will connect at the same time. The default value is different for each wireless router manufacturer. If this mode is enabled, the device will first need to receive a CTS return frame from the wireless WAP before sending information. The automatic setting determines which PC can connect to the WAP within a certain time frame with an RTS send request packet. This makes the connection of numerous devices smoother and makes it happen at all.
How error without CTS happens
When CTS is disabled, the connection error occurs because the devices cannot detect when other devices in the network are trying to transfer data. This can result in a data collision and the WAP will return an error message to the device transmitting the data. CTS determines the order in which devices connect to the WAP.
Difference between CTS and CTS-RTS modes
CTS and CTS-RTS are two security methods simultaneously similar, but with some differences. With CTS-RTS, devices need to receive a self-targeted CTS frame before sending data. If you use CTS-RTS, then the devices will send RTS and receive CTS before sending data. The data rate can also be adjusted to control the data exchange process.
