The Linux WiFi Policy allows organizations to centrally manage WiFi access and configuration on Linux devices. With this policy, you can enforce WiFi restrictions, block unauthorized networks, allow only approved networks, and deploy managed WiFi profiles directly to Linux endpoints.
This policy works on both BYOD and company-owned Linux devices.
Requirements
Linux operating system
Overview
The Linux WiFi Policy helps ensure that devices only connect to trusted wireless networks and that WiFi access is controlled in a consistent, secure manner. By using this policy, organizations can:
Block devices from connecting to specific WiFi networks
Restrict devices so they only connect to approved SSIDs
Automatically deploy WiFi configurations (SSID, password, connection type)
Enforce WiFi security posture across the entire Linux fleet
Policy Settings
The Linux WiFi Policy includes several configurable options:
1. WiFi Block
Options: Block / Unblock / NA
Controls the global behavior of WiFi connectivity:
Block → All WiFi connections are disabled
Unblock → WiFi is always allowed
NA → No global change; other rules (Allowed/Disallowed lists) apply
This setting helps enforce strict compliance when WiFi must be disabled entirely.
2. Disallowed Device List
Value: List of SSIDs
WiFi connections that match any SSID on this list will be blocked and disabled.
Use cases:
Prevent connection to public networks (e.g., “Starbucks WiFi”)
Block unsecured networks
Block rogue access points in corporate environments
Example entries:
GuestNetwork OpenWiFi Starbucks
3. Allowed Device List
Value: List of SSIDs
Only WiFi networks listed in the Allowed Device List will be permitted.
All other WiFi connections will be disabled.
This creates a strict whitelist for WiFi access.
Use cases:
Require employees to connect only to corporate-managed networks
Prevent remote workers from connecting to unknown WiFi networks
Maintain compliance for sensitive environments
Example entries:
Company-5G Company-Secure HomeOffice
4. Service Set Identifier (SSID)
The SSID (WiFi network name) for a deployed WiFi profile.
Use this when pushing a WiFi profile to a device, allowing it to automatically connect to a network.
5. Password
Password for the SSID defined above.
Accepted formats:
WPA/WPA2 pre-shared key (standard WiFi password)
WPA3 password (depending on Linux distro support)
WiFi Profiles
WiFi Profiles allow you to preconfigure one or multiple WiFi networks on Linux devices.
You can add as many profiles as needed using the Add button.
Each WiFi Profile includes:
Profile Setting Details
1. SSID Name
The WiFi network name the device should connect to.
2. Password
The network password (pre-shared key).
3. Connection Type
Options:
WPA-PSK
WPA2-PSK
WPA3-PSK
Open (not recommended)
This defines the type of wireless security used by the access point.
How Devices Behave With This Policy
When WiFi Block = Block
All WiFi interfaces are disabled
No connections are allowed
When Allowed Device List is populated
Device can only join SSIDs on the allowed list
All other SSIDs are automatically blocked
When Disallowed Device List is populated
Device is allowed to use any WiFi except those listed
When WiFi Profiles are configured
The device receives preconfigured WiFi settings
Device will auto-connect, even if the user has not configured WiFi manually
Use Cases
1. Enforce Corporate WiFi Connection Only
Allow:
Company-Secure
Block everything else.
2. Deploy WiFi Profiles for Field Devices
Push WiFi credentials directly to remote devices so they can automatically connect.
3. Block Unsafe Public Networks
Add commonly exploited SSIDs to the Disallowed List.
4. Lock Down High-Security Devices
Set WiFi Block = Block to disable wireless access entirely.
Best Practices
✔ Use Allowed Device List for strict network compliance
✔ Avoid using “Open” networks—prefer WPA/WPA2/WPA3
✔ Deploy multiple WiFi profiles for hybrid/remote workers
✔ Combine with Tracking Policy to monitor network behavior
✔ Keep WiFi Block set to NA unless strict enforcement is needed
Summary
The Linux WiFi Policy in Swif.ai provides full control over WiFi connectivity, enabling organizations to secure, restrict, and automate network access for all Linux-managed devices. Whether the need is compliance, security, or convenience, this policy delivers a flexible and powerful way to manage WiFi behavior across your Linux fleet.