What does the WPS button on a router do?

Many Wi-Fi routers feature a Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), but not many people understand how to use and what is its function. In this article, we shall find out what the WPS button on a router does.

Many suppliers equip their routers with a WPS button. It is an in-built wireless network security standard that enables secure, fast, and easy connections between the router and wireless devices. More so, this feature only works on wireless networks that use password encryption with WPA or WPA2 Personal Security Protocols. Alternatively, it does not work on wireless networks that utilize WEP security protocols.

Likewise, other manufacturers name their WPS button as Push ‘n’ Connect, PBC,  WI-FI Simple Config, or even Quick Secure Setup (QSS). As a result, this feature simplifies the process of connecting your device to a wireless network by establishing a wireless network with a network SSID and secure data WPA data encryption and authentication.

How does a WPS button work?

Now that you understand the function of a WPS button let us find out how it works. Before using it, you first have to locate it on your router. It is often at the back of the Wi-Fi router, but other devices have it near the Ethernet ports.

Press on the WPS button for about three seconds until the light or icon starts flashing to turn on the discovery of new devices. Take the device you want to connect to the wireless network and open its network settings. Select your network and wait as your device connects automatically without entering any information. Once connected, you do not have to repeat the process when you push the button again. Your device will easily remember the necessary data to connect to the network.

Sometimes, you will find that some routers do not have a WPS button. In such cases, you will have to enter an eight-digit code, often found in the WPS configuration page. The code is automatically generated and cannot be changed by the user.

The majority of the routers have their WPS feature enabled automatically, while others require the user to turn it on using the administration user interface and the router’s firmware. Some Wi-Fi routers have one button to turn the feature on and off. Luckily, you do not have to remember a security key or passphrase as it is not the user who creates it.

Which devices have WPS support?

Plenty of modern-day networking equipment has a WPS button, while multiple devices support its functionality. Some popular examples of devices with a WPS button are repeaters or range extenders to allow wireless connectivity of various devices and printers for quick connections. On the other hand, devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and 2-in-1 devices of all types support WPS functionality, with the aid of their operating system.

Which operating systems support WPS functionality

Despite its ease of use, WPS application is not as widespread as many people would think. Many operating systems available on the market do not provide native support for it, making it impossible to use it. Luckily, the most popular operating systems on the market, Android and Windows, offer WPS support.

Since 2007, Windows embraced WPS functionality and implemented it in its Windows Vista product. Similarly, Windows 7, 8.1, and 10 all support WPS functionality and Android ever since 2011 when it implemented the features in its 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich versions. It is worth noting that all the subsequent Android versions after this support WPS.

Unfortunately, Apple’s MacBook OS and iOS operating systems do not support WPS functionality. As a result, even if the router used has a WPS button, you will have to enter a password.

Disadvantage of WPS

As discussed earlier, WPS provides convenience and reliability when it comes to accessing the internet on wireless routers. However, it also comes with its own set of drawbacks. Users who use the eight-digit code to access WPS functionality potentially face hacking threats through brute-force attacking strategies. As a result, any learning or experienced hacker can easily access your wireless network and gain personal data through WPS.

Similarly, users who have a button-activated WPS connection also face the same potential risk as anyone within the range of connectivity can easily access your wireless network without anyone knowing it. As a result, many people do not prefer using the WPS feature, especially in a public space accessible to outsiders.

Therefore, if you have confidential or important information stored on a device, it is best not to connect to a WPS-enabled network as it makes connected devices quite vulnerable to hacking. Outsiders can easily gain access to your wireless network and personal data without your knowledge and permission. However, if you choose to use WPS for your home-based Wi-Fi routers, it is best to ensure that external sources do not have access to your network to misuse it without the proper authorization.

Advantages of WPS
Disadvantages of WPS
Easy accessibility and feasibility
Easy to hack
Convenient
Not supported by Apple’s MacBook OS and iOS operating systems
Supported by Windows and Android devices

Conclusion

While WPS has its advantages, it still needs plenty of improvement when it comes to security. More so, it can fail to connect to your device if you are too far from the router or if the feature is disabled. However, it definitely makes wireless networks more feasible and accessible to its users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it important to have WPS?

WPS makes connecting to a wireless network simple and quick. It also offers additional security for ensuring the safety of your wireless network.

Can WPS connect to any device?

The wireless router and device have to be WPS compatible to secure the connection. Both devices also have to communicate through a common access point.

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