What protocol does WPA primarily utilize for encryption?

WPA primarily utilizes TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) for encryption, which was developed to address specific security issues found in the WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) protocol. TKIP added additional layers of security, including per-packet key mixing, a message integrity check, and a rekeying mechanism that dynamically changes the keys being used for enhancing wireless network security.

While TKIP was used in the original WPA specification, it's important to note that WPA2 later transitioned to a more secure encryption method using CCMP (Counter Mode with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol) based on AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). TKIP's design was essential for providing a stopgap measure while the wireless industry moved towards more secure standards. Thus, the answer identifies a key aspect of WPA's encryption method that reflects its historical context and security evolution in wireless protocols.