During the development of telecommunications, several encryption algorithms have been adopted and applied to wireless networks. In operating systems such as Linux, the tools for data transmission over wireless networks are reaching a level of sophistication in reference to other widespread operating systems that are supported by the manufacturers. Thus, designers of protocols for different operating systems, especially Linux, have made every effort to improve the shortcomings of the encryption algorithms. This article analyzes the performance of encryption algorithms which work on the protocols WEP, WPA and WPA2 to provide an overview of how and why wireless protocols and encryption protection must achieve a more scientific basis to detect and prevent attacks , in order to meet the shortcomings associated with encryption algorithms that are currently present.