Connecting to Wi-Fi via WPS: A Complete Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) was created to simplify connecting devices to a wireless network without entering complex passwords. Instead of searching for the SSID, copying the password from the router's sticker, or manually entering it on devices without a keyboard (such as printers or smart speakers), simply press a button or enter a short PIN. However, this convenience conceals security nuances and compatibility limitations that are important to be aware of.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions For connecting via WPS on various types of devices—from smartphones and laptops to Smart TVs and printers. We'll explore how the technology works, which routers support it (and why some manufacturers are abandoning it), and warn you about common mistakes. If your router doesn't have a physical WPS button or you're unsure about the security of this method, a list of alternative connection methods is provided at the end of the article.

Before you begin, check whether your router supports WPS. This is usually indicated on the device (look for the logo). WPS (or the text next to the button). If there is no button, but the function is present, it can be activated through the router's web interface—read how to do this in the section “Setting up WPS on the router”.

What is WPS and how does it work?

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) — a wireless communication standard developed Wi-Fi Alliance Introduced in 2006, its purpose is to simplify the process of connecting devices to a secure Wi-Fi network without having to enter a long password. The technology supports three main authentication methods:

• 🔘 PBC (Push Button Configuration) — connection by pressing a button on the router and device (the most common method).
• 🔢 PIN code — an 8-digit code that can be entered on the device or generated on the router.
• 📱 NFC — connection by touching the device to the router (rare, requires NFC support on both devices).

The main advantage of WPS is speed. Connection takes just a few seconds, while manually entering a password (especially on devices without an on-screen keyboard) can take minutes. However, the technology also has Critical flaw: PIN code vulnerability to brute-force attacksIn 2011, researchers proved that it only takes a few hours to crack an 8-digit PIN, so many manufacturers (for example, ASUS And MikroTik) have abandoned WPS support in new router models.

Today, WPS is most commonly used in:

• 🖨️ Printers and MFPs (for quick setup of Wi-Fi printing).
• 📺 Smart TV and media players (where entering a password from the remote is inconvenient).
• 🔌 Smart sockets, light bulbs, and other IoT devices.

⚠️ Note: If your router was released after 2020, please check if the WPS function is disabled by default for security reasons. Some models (e.g. TP-Link Archer AX6000 or Keenetic Ultra) require manual activation of this option.

How to check if your router supports WPS?

Before attempting to connect via WPS, make sure your router supports this feature. There are three ways to check:

1. External examination. On the router body, look for:
• 🔄 Button with the inscription WPS or a logo (two arrows forming a circle).
• 🏷️ A sticker mentioning WPS (usually next to the login details for the admin panel).

Web interface. Go to your router settings (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and find the section Wi-Fi → WPS or Wireless Network → WPS.

Documentation. Check the instructions for your router or the specifications on the manufacturer's website (for example, for Zyxel Keenetic or D-Link DIR-300).

If there's no WPS button but the function is supported, it can be activated programmatically. For example, on routers TP-Link The path to the settings looks like this: Advanced Settings → Wireless → WPSOn . ASUS — Wireless Network → WPS.

⚠️ Attention: On some routers (for example, Mercusys or TendaThe WPS button is combined with the reset function. Holding it for more than 5 seconds can reset the router to factory settings!

WPS connection methods: which one to choose?

Depending on the device and router model, different WPS connection methods are available. Let's look at each in detail.

1. Push-button connection (PBC)

The simplest and most common method. Suitable for most modern routers and devices (smartphones, printers, Smart TVs). Here's the procedure:

1. Click the button WPS on the router (hold for 1-2 seconds if the button is combined with Reset).
2. For 2 minutes Activate the search for WPS networks on the connecting device.
3. Select your network from the list (if required).

2. Connection by PIN code

This method is less convenient, but useful if there is no physical button on the router. The PIN code can be:

• 📌 Enter on a device (for example, on a printer) Canon PIXMA or HP LaserJet).
• 🔢 Generate it in the router settings and enter it on the device.

Typically, the PIN code consists of 8 digits and is indicated on the router sticker or in the web interface (section WPS → PIN code).

3. Connecting via NFC

A rare method that requires NFC support on both devices. For example, some router models. Huawei (For example, Huawei WS5200) allow you to connect to the network simply by touching your smartphone to the router. However, this method is extremely rare and has not gained widespread adoption.

Which method should I choose? If your router has a physical WPS button, use it. PBC — it's faster and more secure than entering a PIN. If there's no button but the feature is supported, set up a connection via the web interface (instructions in the next section).

Setting up WPS on a router: step-by-step instructions

If your router supports WPS but doesn't have a button on the router (or it's combined with other functions), you can enable it through the web interface. Let's look at the process using popular models as examples.

For TP-Link routers (Archer, Deco, TL-WR)

1. Open your browser and type in the address bar 192.168.1.1 or tplinkwifi.net.
2. Log in (default logins: admin/admin or indicated on the sticker).
3. Go to Advanced Settings → Wireless → WPS.
4. Activate the switch Enable WPS.
5. Select a connection method: PBC (button) or PIN code.
6. Save settings (Apply).

For ASUS routers (RT-AX, RT-AC)

On routers ASUS WPS is often disabled by default. To enable it:

1. Go to the control panel at 192.168.1.1.
2. Go to Wireless Network → WPS.
3. In the section WPS settings select Turn on.
4. Specify the authentication method: First Button (PBC) or PIN code.
5. Click Apply.

For Keenetic routers

On devices Keenetic (For example, Keenetic Ultra or Giga) WPS is enabled like this:

1. Open the web interface at 192.168.1.1.
2. Go to Home Network → Wireless Network.
3. Find the block WPS and activate the slider.
4. Select the network (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) for which you want to enable WPS.
5. Save the changes.

After enabling WPS via the web interface, you'll be able to connect devices without a physical button. However, keep in mind: The function will be active only for 2 minutes after activation (then you need to turn it on again).

Connecting different devices via WPS

The WPS connection process varies depending on the device type. Below are detailed instructions for the most common cases.

📱 Smartphones and tablets (Android, iOS)

On Android (version 9.0 and higher) connection via WPS looks like this:

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Click Additionally (or ⋮ → WPS).
3. Select Connecting via WPS.
4. Press the WPS button on the router.
5. Wait for the connection (usually takes 10-30 seconds).

On iPhone And iPad There is no native WPS support. However, some applications (for example, WPS Connect) allow you to connect via a PIN code. To do this:

1. Install the app from App Store.
2. Select your Wi-Fi network.
3. Enter the PIN code from the router sticker.

🖥️ Laptops and PCs (Windows, macOS, Linux)

On Windows 10/11:

1. Open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Click Manage known networks → Add new network.
3. Select Connect using WPS.
4. Activate WPS on your router.

On macOS There is no native WPS support. Third-party software (e.g. WiFi Connector).

🖨️ Printers and MFPs (Canon, HP, Epson, Brother)

Most modern printers support WPS. For example, HP LaserJet:

1. On the printer control panel, select Settings → Network → Wi-Fi.
2. Select WPS (Push Button).
3. Press the WPS button on the router.
4. Wait for connection confirmation on the printer screen.

For printers Canon PIXMA the path may differ: Settings → Wireless → Connection Setup → WPS.

📺 Smart TVs and media players (Samsung, LG, Sony, Xiaomi)

On TVs Samsung (Tizen OS):

1. Open Settings → General → Network → Open network settings.
2. Select Wireless network.
3. Click WPS (push-button).
4. Activate WPS on your router.

On LG (webOS):

1. Go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi connection.
2. Select WPS connection.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

⚠️ Please note: Some smart TVs (eg. Xiaomi Mi TV) do not support WPS due to firmware limitations. In this case, use alternative connection methods (see the section What to do if WPS doesn't work).

Why might WPS not work on some devices?

Some manufacturers (such as Apple) deliberately opt out of WPS support due to security vulnerabilities. The feature may also be blocked if:

- The router operates in bridge mode.

- Guest Wi-Fi with a separate network is included.

- A non-standard Wi-Fi channel is used (for example, 12-14 in the 2.4 GHz range).

WPS Security: Risks and How to Minimize Them

Despite the convenience, WPS is considered an insecure technology.Main risks:

• 🔓 PIN code vulnerability. An 8-digit code can be cracked in a few hours (especially if the router doesn't block attempts after several errors).
• 🕳️ Lack of encryption. When connecting via WPS, data is transmitted in clear text, which allows the PIN code to be intercepted.
• 🚪 Open access. If an attacker physically gets to the router, they can connect to the network in seconds.

How to reduce risks?

• 🔄 Disable WPS after use. Do not leave the function active permanently.
• 🔒 Use a strong Wi-Fi password. Even if someone connects via WPS, a complex password will protect against further access.
• 🛡️ Update your router firmware. Manufacturers regularly patch vulnerabilities in new versions of software.
• ⚠️ Give preference to PBC. Connection via a button is more secure than via a PIN code.

If the security of your network is critical (for example, in an office or when working with sensitive data), It is better to completely disable WPS and use alternative connection methods.

What to do if WPS does not work or is disabled?

If your router does not support WPS or the function is disabled, use alternative connection methods:

1. Connection via QR code

Many modern routers (for example, Huawei or Xiaomi) generate a QR code for quick connection. To use it:

1. Log into your router's web interface.
2. Find the section Wi-Fi → QR code.
3. Scan the code with your smartphone camera.

2. Using WPS PIN code (if there is no button)

If your router does not have a physical button, but the WPS function is supported:

1. Go to your router settings.
2. Find the section WPS → PIN code.
3. Generate a code and enter it on your device.

3. Manual connection (entering SSID and password)

The most reliable, but time-consuming method:

1. Find the SSID (network name) and password on the router sticker.
2. Please enter them on your device manually.

4. "Wi-Fi Direct" or "Easy Connect" function

Some devices (such as printers) Epson or televisions Sony Bravia) support their own quick connection protocols. These are usually more secure than WPS.

5. Connection via Ethernet (for stationary devices)

If your device supports a wired connection (such as a Smart TV or printer), use a cable. LANThis eliminates the risks associated with Wi-Fi.

If none of the methods work, check:

• 🔌 Are the cables connected to the router correctly?
• 📶 Is airplane mode enabled on your device?
• 🔄 Does the router need to be reset (for example, if the Wi-Fi settings were previously changed).

Frequently asked questions about connecting via WPS

❓ Is it possible to connect via WPS if the button is broken?

Yes, if your router supports WPS. Enable the feature through the web interface (section WPS) and use the method PIN code or activate the mode PBC Programmatically. If the web interface is also unavailable, the only option left is to manually enter the Wi-Fi password.

❓ Why can't WPS find my network?

The reasons may be as follows:

• 📡 The router is operating in the mode 802.11r (Fast Transition), which is not compatible with WPS.
• 🔄 The WPS function is disabled in the settings.
• 📶 The device is too far from the router (WPS requires a stable signal).
• 🛡️ MAC address filter is enabled (disable it temporarily).

Try rebooting your router and try again.

❓ Can I use WPS for a guest network?

No, WPS only works with the main Wi-Fi network. Guest networks typically have separate security settings and don't support this feature. If you need to connect a device to a guest network, enter the password manually.

❓ How do I disable WPS on my router?

To completely disable WPS:

1. Log into your router's web interface.
2. Find the section WPS or Wireless Network → WPS.
3. Turn off the function (move the slider to the position Off).
4. Save the settings.

On some routers (for example, Keenetic) WPS turns off automatically after 2 minutes of inactivity.

❓ Do Mesh systems (e.g. TP-Link Deco) support WPS?

Most Mesh systems (including TP-Link Deco, Google Nest Wi-Fi And ASUS ZenWiFi) do not support WPS due to architectural limitations. To connect devices, use:

• 📱 Manufacturer's mobile app (e.g. TP-Link Deco).
• 🔗 "Easy Setup" function (similar to WPS, but with improved security).
• 🔑 Manually adding devices via the web interface.