An encryption key distribution method capable of performing fast roaming
by differentially distributing encryption keys in advance, according to
access authorization classes, in a wireless access network and a roaming
method using distributed encryption keys are provided. The encryption key
distribution method comprises: receiving a command to communicate with an
access point not available for communication using an encryption key
currently selected in the encryption key set; determining access
authorization of the access point not available for communications;
selecting an encryption key from the encryption key set obtained in
advance corresponding to the determined access authorization; and using
the selected encryption key to encrypt a transmission message and
communicate with the access point not available for communication. The
method reduces the delay time, which is caused by encryption key
distribution while a wireless terminal is traveling, such that roaming
and a hand-off are carried out quickly and safely, and user convenience
and safe transmission of data are achieved.