Which feature is provided by WPA2 on a wireless network?

WPA2, or Wi-Fi Protected Access II, is a security protocol designed to enhance the security of wireless networks. One of its primary features is providing both authentication and encryption.

Authentication ensures that only authorized users and devices can connect to the network, thereby preventing unauthorized access. This process often involves the use of a pre-shared key (PSK) or an enterprise-level authentication method that incorporates a server for greater security.

The encryption component of WPA2 is vital for protecting the data transmitted over the wireless network. It uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is a robust encryption standard that helps to safeguard user information from interception by malicious actors. By encrypting the data, WPA2 ensures that even if data packets are captured, they cannot be read without the appropriate decryption key.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the features provided specifically by WPA2. While speed enhancement, firewall protection, and network redundancy are important aspects of overall network management and security, they are not core functions of the WPA2 protocol itself. WPA2's primary role is to ensure that data is transmitted securely and that only authorized users access the network, making authentication and encryption its essential features.