What type of encryption can be used to establish a connection with a simple passkey without 802.1X authentication?

The use of WPA PSK (Pre-Shared Key) or WPA2 PSK is the correct choice because these security protocols enable a network to be secured using a simple passkey. With WPA PSK/WPA2 PSK, users can connect to the wireless network by entering a shared passphrase that acts as a key for authentication and encryption.

This approach is straightforward and does not require the infrastructure of 802.1X authentication. It allows for easier setup, which is particularly beneficial for home networks or smaller deployments where complicated authentication methods may not be necessary.

On the other hand, WPA EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) and WPA2 EAP require an authentication server to facilitate secure access and are based on 802.1X, making them more complex and not suitable for simple passkey connections. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), while also a form of encryption, is outdated and insecure compared to WPA and WPA2, and it does not provide the same level of security or authentication methods as PSK options.