How to convert WEP key to ASCII passphrase?

BotNet picture BotNet · Aug 15, 2010 · Viewed 14.9k times · Source

Does anyone have a hex->ascii method to reverse the WEP encryption?

I have my WEP key (eg F2:E8:54:22:F3), but can't remember my passphrase. I'm not too concerned with the accuracy of the passphrase.

I found this site, which has a Linux program that seems to work with values of keys generated by this site (supposedly the same WEP encryption engine), but unfortunately, it doesn't work with the key I have.

What I'd like is a Perl/C# solution if someone has one.

Things I realize:

  1. I know there will be several ascii options, since this is WEP (the more the better, to help me find my original passphrase)
  2. I know that WPA/WPA2 is suggested as a better alternative to WEP
  3. I know that some routers have an http admin page (192.168.0.1), which may have the ascii passphrase there

Note:

  1. I guess you could say this piggybacks on this question, but it's different since that one is asking about the authentication, whereas I'm more concerned with the WEP algorithm itself.

  2. This is not for illegal hacking purposes. Obtaining the WEP key would be illegal, since that is what's used in accessing a WEP-enforced network. I'm merely asking how to convert that key to it's English alternative. - I should also note that accessing another person's network and using their resources w/o proper permission may be illegal.

Answer

hvgotcodes picture hvgotcodes · Aug 15, 2010

it might be easier to just reset your router to its factory settings and resetting it up than to do what you are attempting...