If you’re reading this, then you’ve probably got a Wi-Fi router at home. And if you’ve given yours a close look, you might have noticed a button on the back of it labelled ‘WPS’. But what is WPS?
In this article, we’ll explain the meaning of WPS and how this useful feature can get your devices hooked up to the internet fast.
What does WPS mean?
WPS is an acronym that stands for ‘Wi-Fi Protected Setup’. If you enable WPS on your router, it’ll make it look for compatible devices within its range and allow them to connect to its Wi-Fi network. All without having to type in the router’s long password.
So, it’s basically just a quick way of getting your smartphone, tablet, laptop or other Wi-Fi enabled tech linked up to the web. Which makes setting up Wi-Fi in your home or office faster and easier.
What does the WPS button on a router do?
Pressing the WPS button on your router will allow any nearby devices to connect to your Wi-Fi network with no password required. This typically lasts for a few minutes before your router will deactivate WPS automatically. Just make sure you know what’s connecting to your Wi-Fi, as you won’t want any freeloaders using your internet!
A WPS button simply makes it quicker to connect new devices to your Wi-Fi router. It means you won’t have to reach down and look under your router to find that pesky password to type in every time. And it’s super convenient for those times you have guests round who want to connect their smartphones to your Wi-Fi.
What devices can connect to WPS?
Lots of devices can connect to WPS, such as phones, wireless printers, Wi-Fi enabled cameras, gaming consoles, and Wi-Fi range extenders. But it’s worth saying that not all devices support WPS, especially older tech that was designed before WPS caught on.
Even some newer gadgets might have it disabled for security reasons (more on that soon). But if you do have a compatible device, you’ll probably see an option that says something like “connect via WPS” when setting it up.
How to connect to a Wi-Fi network with WPS
Follow these steps to connect your device to your Wi-Fi network via WPS on your router:
Press the WPS button on your router: It should be labelled ‘WPS’ or represented by two arrows pointing at each other.
Select your Wi-Fi network on your device: Open the Wi-Fi settings on the device you want to connect to your router and select your network’s name. You might be prompted to enter a PIN code.
Wait for your device to connect: Within a few seconds, your device should connect to your Wi-Fi network. On some routers, this could take a couple of minutes.
Should I disable WPS on my router?
It’s best practice to turn off WPS on your router after you’ve connected the devices you want. Once you're done, there's no reason to keep the button active. And this also stops strangers from using your network, who can be a threat to your cybersecurity. You really don’t want to let data-stealing hackers in!
How to disable WPS on your router
Here are some common steps for completely disabling WPS on your router:
Enter your router's IP address into a browser: This will allow you to access your router’s advanced settings. You should be able to find the IP address printed on a sticker on your router.
Navigate to Wi-Fi settings: Once you’ve opened your router's admin console in your web browser, click on the Wi-Fi settings option (or similar).
Turn off WPS: You should be able to deactivate WPS by clicking on a button or checkbox.
Save your changes: Confirm you’re happy with the changes you’ve made (if prompted) and restart your router.
Tech tip: Disabling WPS may prevent some devices from connecting to your network. So, be sure to check your devices' manuals for instructions on connecting without WPS.
FAQs
How do I check if my router has WPS?
It’s super easy to check if you have a WPS router. Just have a look around the back and you’ll probably find a small button labelled ‘WPS’ that you can press. Some routers will have it placed on the front instead for easier access.
Not all routers have WPS, and it’s not the end of the world if yours doesn’t. It’s just a handy little feature to have that’ll get your devices connected to the internet quickly.
Is WPS the same as Wi-Fi?
WPS is just a built-in feature on your router. It simply makes it easier to get your Wi-Fi enabled gadgets hooked up to a secure wireless network. So, it’s not the same as Wi-Fi since that’s what your wireless network is.
Is WPS the same as WPA?
WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a feature that makes it easier to connect your devices to your wireless Wi-Fi network, which can be activated by pressing a physical button on your router. WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) is a security protocol designed to secure wireless networks by encrypting data transmitted over the network. It helps to prevent unauthorised access and protect your data. It come in two flavours (WPA and WPA2), with WPA2 the more modern and secure of the two. It’s recommended for use on all wireless networks.
Is WPS safe to use?
WPS has several known security issues, and it can leave you vulnerable to attackers as they can gain access to your network without needing a password. If you do enable WPS on your router, be sure that no one’s nearby who can connect to your router and Wi-Fi.
Any more questions?
We hope that’s cleared up all your questions about WPS’ meaning and how it can help you hook up your tech to Wi-Fi. But if you want to learn more about networking solutions for your home, check out our networking buying guide.
