Connecting to Wi-Fi via WPS: Instructions for Phones, Laptops, and TVs

Connecting to Wi-Fi via WPS Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is one of the fastest ways to connect a device to a router without entering a password. Simply press a button on the router or enter a PIN, and the network will be set up automatically. But how does it work in practice? And why does WPS sometimes refuse to connect devices?

In this article you will find step by step instructions for Android, iPhone, Windows, Smart TV and other devices, and we'll also address common errors—from a non-working WPS button to the "Failed to connect" message. We won't limit ourselves to abstract advice: we'll provide specific steps and explanations of why they work.

What is WPS and how does it work?

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a simplified Wi-Fi connection standard designed for home networks. Its primary purpose is to eliminate the need for users to enter long passwords. Instead, it uses:

• 🔘 WPS button on the router (physical or virtual in the web interface).
• 🔢 PIN code (8 digits), which can be found on the router sticker or in its settings.
• 📱 NFC (rarely, only on some models).

When you enable WPS on your device and press the button on your router, they exchange encrypted data and the connection is established automatically. This is convenient, but Not all modern devices support WPS due to security vulnerabilities.. For example, Apple completely abandoned this function in iOS And macOS after 2020.

It is important to understand that WPS is not a separate protocol, but an add-on to existing security standards (WPA2 or WPA3). It does not replace the password, but only simplifies the connection process.

Where is the WPS button on the router?

Button WPS It is usually located on the back or side panel of the router. It can be:

• 🔴 A separate button with the inscription WPS or an icon of two arrows forming a circle.
• 🔄 Combined with a button Reset (in this case, holding for more than 5 seconds will reset the settings, and a short press will activate WPS).
• 📱 Virtual - in the router's web interface (section Wi-Fi → WPS or Wireless Network → WPS).

This is what the WPS button looks like on popular router models:

If you can't find the button, check the documentation for your model or go to the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). In the section Wi-Fi or Wireless network there must be a point WPS.

How to connect to Wi-Fi via WPS on Android

Most smartphones on Android support connection via WPS, but the path to the settings may differ depending on the OS version and shell (for example, MIUI, One UI, ColorOS). Here are the general instructions:

Open Settings → Wi-Fi

Click "More" or "⋮" (three dots) in the upper right corner

Select "Connect via WPS" or "WPS Push Button"

Press the WPS button on the router within 2 minutes

Wait for the "Connected" message -->

If the point WPS not on the menu, try the following options:

• 🔍 On some phones (eg. Samsung) you need to hold your finger on the name of the Wi-Fi network and select Connect via WPS.
• 📱 On Xiaomi the path may look like this: Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS.
• ⚙️ On older versions Android (before 9.0) the WPS item could be called Advanced Settings → WPS Push Button.

If your phone does not connect after pressing the WPS button on the router, check:

⚠️ Attention: Some routers (eg. Zyxel Keenetic) require preliminary activation of WPS in the web interface. Go to Wi-Fi Networks → Access Point → WPS and turn on the function.

Connecting to WPS on iPhone and iPad

Apple removed WPS support in iOS And iPadOS starting with version 14 (2020). This is due to protocol vulnerabilities that allowed attackers to brute-force a PIN code in a few hours. Therefore, iPhone or iPad connect via WPS impossible.

Alternative methods:

• 🔑 Enter your Wi-Fi password manually (the most secure option).
• 📱 Use the feature Fast connection (starting from iOS 11): bring it up iPhone to another device Apple, already connected to this network.
• 🖥️ If the router supports WPS by PIN code, you can generate a QR code to connect through applications like WiFi QR Generator.

If you absolutely need to use WPS, you will have to temporarily connect another device (for example, Android-smartphone) and distribute the Internet through Modem mode.

Why did Apple abandon WPS?

In 2011, security researchers discovered that the WPS PIN could be cracked in 4-10 hours due to weak security. Even after patches, the protocol remained vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Apple decided to completely remove WPS support from its devices to eliminate the risk to users.

Connecting a laptop or PC to Wi-Fi via WPS (Windows 10/11)

On computers with Windows Connecting via WPS is possible, but the interface is more hidden than on mobile devices. Here's how:

1. Open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.

2. Click Managing known networks → Add a new network.

3. Enter the network name (SSID) manually, but instead of a password, select Connect using the button.

4. Press the WPS button on the router within 2 minutes.

If the point Connect using the button No, try an alternative method:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Connecting to the network → select your Wi-Fi network.
3. In the password entry window, click Connect using the WPS button (If this item is missing, your Wi-Fi adapter does not support WPS).

If WPS doesn't work, check:

• 🖥️ Adapter compatibility: Not all USB/Wi-Fi adapters support WPS. For example, cheap chip-based models Realtek RTL8188 often lack this function.
• 🔄 Router operating mode: if enabled WPA3 only, WPS may be disabled automatically (switch to WPA2/WPA3).

Connecting Smart TV to Wi-Fi via WPS

Televisions Samsung, LG, Sony Other brands often support WPS, but the interface can vary greatly. Let's look at the connection using popular models as an example:

For Samsung Smart TV (Tizen OS):

1. Open Settings → General → Network → Open network settings.

2. Select Wireless network → List of Wi-Fi networks.

3. Click WPS (push-button) and activate the button on the router.

For LG Smart TV (webOS):

1. Go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi connection.

2. Select WPS connection (may be called Easy connection).

3. Click Begin and activate WPS on the router.

For Sony Bravia (Android TV):

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi.

2. Select Add a network → WPS button.

3. Press the WPS button on the router.

If your TV does not see the WPS option, check:

⚠️ Attention: On some models Xiaomi TV And Philips The WPS function is disabled by default. To enable it, you may need to update the firmware via USB.

Common WPS Connection Errors and How to Fix Them

Even if you've done everything correctly, WPS might not work. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:

Error	Possible cause	Solution
"Unable to connect via WPS"	Waiting time expired (more than 2 minutes)	Repeat the process by pressing the WPS button again
"WPS disabled"	The function is blocked in the router settings.	Go to the web interface and enable WPS in the section Wi-Fi
"Incorrect PIN"	The code entered is incorrect or the router does not accept it.	Check the PIN on the router sticker or reset it in the settings.
"The device does not support WPS"	Old Wi-Fi adapter or incompatible OS	Update your adapter driver or use a password
"Network not found" after WPS	The router does not broadcast the SSID (hidden network)	Enable network name broadcasting in your router settings.

If none of the methods helped, try:

• 🔄 Reboot the router (turn it off for 30 seconds).
• 📱 Reset network settings on the device (on Android: Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and Bluetooth).
• 🔧 Update your router's firmware (download the latest version from the manufacturer's website).

If the router gives an error WPS Locked (blocked), this means there have been too many unsuccessful connection attempts. In this case:

1. Log into your router's web interface.

2. Find the section Wi-Fi → WPS.

3. Click Unlock or Unblock.

WPS Security: Is It Worth Using?

Despite the convenience, WPS has serious vulnerabilities, which make it unsafe for continuous use:

• 🔓 PIN code vulnerability: Due to the specifics of the PIN verification algorithm, it can be cracked within 4-10 hours (even if the router is blocked after several attempts).
• 🕳️ Brute force attacks: Attackers can try combinations until they find the right one.
• 🔄 No encryption: Some routers transmit WPS data in an unprotected form, which makes it possible for it to be intercepted.

Safety recommendations:

⚠️ Attention: If you use WPS, disable it after all devices are connected. In your router settings, set the option WPS → Mode in position Disabled.

Safer alternatives:

• 🔑 QR code: Many modern routers (for example, ASUS or TP-Link) allow you to generate a QR code for connection. This is convenient and secure.
• 📱 WPA3: Use the standard WPA3 instead of WPA2 - It is resistant to most attacks.
• 🔄 Guest network: For temporary devices (guests), create a separate network with a simple password.

If you need to leave WPS enabled (for example, for smart devices without a screen), at least:

— Change the standard PIN code to a complex one (8 digits, no repetitions).

— Limit the WPS activity time (set it in the router settings) Waiting time: 1 minute).

— Enable MAC address filtering for additional protection.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting via WPS

Is it possible to connect via WPS if I forgot my Wi-Fi password?

Yes, WPS is designed to connect without entering a password. However, if WPS is disabled in the router settings, you will need to reset the router to factory settings (using the button). Reset) and configure it again.

Why isn't WPS working on my router?

Possible reasons:

• WPS is disabled in the web interface.
• The router is operating in the mode WPA3 only (WPS is not supported).
• Too many failed connection attempts (WPS needs to be unlocked).
• Incompatibility with the device (eg. iPhone does not support WPS).

Check your router settings and update its firmware.

How can I find out the WPS PIN code if it has been erased from the sticker?

The PIN code can be found:

• In the router's web interface (section Wi-Fi → WPS).
• On the router box (if it still exists).
• In the documents supplied with the device.

If the PIN is lost, it can be reset to factory defaults via Reset.

Can WPS be used to connect smart devices (lamps, cameras, speakers)?

Yes, many smart gadgets (for example, Xiaomi Mi Home, TP-Link Tapo) support WPS connection. This is usually described in the device's manual. The main thing is to make sure the router and the device are close together (within 1-2 meters).

What should I do if the internet doesn't work after connecting via WPS?

Check:

• Is the provider's cable connected to the router?
• Is DHCP enabled in the router settings (section LAN → DHCP server).
• Is your antivirus or firewall blocking the connection?

If the problem persists, reboot the router and device.