Connecting to Wi-Fi via WPS: Instructions for all devices (2026)

Technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) It was created to simplify connecting devices to a wireless network—without entering complex passwords. Simply press a button on the router or enter a short PIN, and the device automatically gains internet access. While this sounds ideal, many encounter problems in practice: the WPS button doesn't respond, the device doesn't detect the network, or the connection drops after a few seconds.

In this article we will look at All connection methods via WPS — from the classic button on the router to alternative methods for devices without this technology. You'll learn how to activate WPS on routers. TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic, Xiaomi and other popular models, as well as how to connect smartphones (Android, iPhone), televisions (Samsung, LG, Sony), printers, and even smart speakers. Let's take a closer look at WPS security risks and we'll explain why some experts recommend disabling this feature after use.

What is WPS and how does it work?

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a wireless communication standard designed to simplify connecting devices to a Wi-Fi network. Instead of entering a long password, users can:

• 🔘 Press the physical button WPS on the router (method PBC — Push Button Configuration).
• 🔢 Enter 8-digit PIN code, which is indicated on the router sticker or in its web interface.
• 📱 Use NFC (on supported devices).

The technology works on the "hotspot" principle: the router opens a window for new devices to connect for two minutes. If a device sends a valid request (a button or PIN) during this period, it automatically gains access to the network. Important: After a successful connection, the WPS window closes and the next device will not be able to connect without reactivation.

WPS is supported by almost all modern routers, but there are some nuances:

• 📶 Dual-band routers (2.4GHz + 5GHz) often require you to select a network before activating WPS.
• 🔒 Some models (for example, ASUS RT-AX88U) allow you to disable WPS via PIN, leaving only the button.
• ⚡ Devices on iOS (iPhone, iPad) do not support WPS - Apple abandoned the technology due to vulnerabilities.

⚠️ Note: If your router was manufactured before 2014, its WPS may use an outdated protocol with vulnerabilities. Check for firmware updates in your device's personal account.

Where is the WPS button on the router?

The WPS button is usually located on the back or side panel of the router. It may be:

• 🔄 A separate button with the inscription WPS or the two arrows icon (🔄).
• 🔘 Combined with a button Reset (factory reset) - in this case, hold it for 1-2 seconds to activate WPS.
• 📶 Hidden under the cover (on some models) Zyxel or D-Link).

Examples of placement on popular models:

If there is no physical button, check the router's web interface. For example, on MikroTik WPS is activated through the menu Wireless → Security Profiles.

Step-by-step instructions: connecting via WPS on different devices

The connection process depends on the device type. Below are general instructions for the most common gadgets.

📱 Android smartphones and tablets

Most devices on Android 6.0+ support WPS. Algorithm:

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Click Additionally (or three dots in the upper right corner).
3. Select Connecting via WPS or WPS button.
4. Activate WPS on the router (using a button or via the web interface).
5. Wait for automatic connection (usually takes 10-30 seconds).

On some firmware (for example, MIUI on Xiaomi) the path may differ: Settings → Wi-Fi → Additional functions → WPS.

Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on your smartphone|

Check if your router supports WPS|

Activate WPS on your router BEFORE starting the search on your phone|

Delete old networks with the same name (SSID) from your phone's memory-->

🖥️ Windows laptops and PCs

IN Windows 10/11 Connecting via WPS is possible, but not always intuitive:

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

If the point WPS no, use it PIN code:

1. Find the PIN on the router sticker or in the web interface (section WPS).
2. IN Windows Select a Wi-Fi network → Connect using a PIN code.
3. Enter the code and confirm.

⚠️ Note: On some laptops (e.g. Dell Latitude) WPS may be disabled in the BIOS. Check the settings. Wireless → WPS Support.

📺 Televisions (Samsung, LG, Sony, Xiaomi)

Connecting via WPS to your TV depends on the model and firmware. The general procedure is:

1. Open Settings → Network → Wireless Network.
2. Select Connection via WPS (PBC).
3. Activate WPS on your router within 2 minutes.
4. Wait for connection confirmation on the TV screen.

Features by brand:

• 📱 Samsung Smart TVWPS is only available on 2018 and newer models. Use a PIN on older TVs.
• 🎮 LG WebOS: Path - Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS.
• 📺 Sony Bravia: Requires prior activation of WPS in the menu Network → Wi-Fi Settings → WPS (push-button).

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

Most modern printers support WPS. Instructions:

1. Find the button on the printer. WPS or menu Wi-Fi/Network.
2. Select a connection method: PBC (button) or PIN.
3. Activate WPS on your router.
4. Wait for the test page to print confirming the connection.

Examples for popular models:

• 🖱️ Canon PIXMA: Hold the button Wi-Fi 5 seconds → select WPS → click OK.
• 🖨️ HP DeskJet: Menu Settings → Wireless → Wi-Fi Protected Setup.
• 📄 Epson EcoTank: Button WPS on the back panel (hold for 3 seconds).

What to do if WPS doesn't work

If the WPS connection is interrupted or the device does not see the network, check the following:

❌ Common errors and solutions

• 🔴 The WPS button is not responding.: Make sure the router is turned on and the WPS indicator is blinking. On some models (Tenda) the button only works when held for 5+ seconds.
• 🔴 The device does not see the network: Check that WPS is activated for the correct frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). Some gadgets (e.g., smart light bulbs) work only at 2.4 GHz.
• 🔴 The connection is broken: Disable MAC address filtering on your router or temporarily disable the firewall.
• 🔴 PIN code is not accepted: Make sure you enter the code from the router sticker, not the Wi-Fi password. On some models (Netgear) PIN is generated dynamically in the web interface.

🔧 Router diagnostics

If the problem is not resolved, follow the steps:

1. Reboot your router (unplug the power for 30 seconds).
2. Check if WPS is enabled in the web interface (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
3. Update your router firmware (section System → Software Update).
4. Reset the router to factory settings (button Reset for 10 seconds).

On routers Keenetic And ASUS There are connection logs. Check them in the section System log — the reason for the failure may be indicated there (for example, WPS timeout or PIN mismatch).

How to check connection logs on an ASUS router

Open the web interface (192.168.1.1) → go to Advanced settings → System log → Wireless networkLook for lines mentioning WPS or EAPOL.

WPS Security: Why Experts Recommend Disabling It

Despite its convenience, WPS has been criticized for security vulnerabilitiesMain risks:

• 🔓 PIN attackAn attacker can guess an 8-digit PIN in a few hours (due to the peculiarities of the verification algorithm).
• 🕳️ Data leak: Some routers transmit the PIN in clear text when connecting.
• 🚪 No blocking: After a successful connection via WPS, the device receives Wi-Fi password, which can be used for repeated access.

Safety recommendations:

• 🔒 Disable WPS after use (in the router's web interface).
• 🔄 Use WPS only for temporary connections to devices without screens (printers, speakers).
• 🛡️ Replace the default router PIN with a random 8-digit code (if this option is available).
• 🔍 Regularly check the list of connected devices in the router's web interface.

⚠️ Warning: If your router was released before 2014, its WPS is vulnerable to attack. Pixie Dust, which allows you to hack a network in minutes. Update the firmware or disable WPS completely.

WPS Alternatives: How to Connect Without a Button

If WPS doesn't work or you don't want to risk security, use alternative methods:

📶 Connection via QR code

Many modern routers (ASUS, TP-Link, Xiaomi) allow you to connect devices via QR code:

1. Generate a QR code in the router's web interface (section Wi-Fi → QR code).
2. Scan it with your smartphone camera or a special application (for example, Wi-Fi QR Scanner).

🔑 Connecting via Wi-Fi password

The classical method remains the most reliable:

1. Find the Wi-Fi password on the router sticker or in the web interface (Wireless Network → Security).
2. Please enter it on your device manually.

📱 Using manufacturer apps

Brands like TP-Link (Tether) or ASUS (Router) offer mobile applications for connection:

• 📲 Install the official router app.
• 🔗 Connect to the router's temporary network (e.g. TP-Link_XXXX).
• 🔑 Follow the instructions in the Wi-Fi data transfer app.

🖧 Cable connection (for printers and PCs)

If Wi-Fi is not stable, use Ethernet or USB:

• 🖥️ Connect the printer to the router with a cable LAN.
• 🔌 Configure the network manually through the printer's web interface.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about WPS

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

Yes, if the router supports it PIN code. Find it on the device sticker or in the web interface (WPS → PIN). If the PIN is also unavailable, use alternative methods (QR code or manual password entry).

❓ Why doesn't iPhone support WPS?

Apple abandoned WPS in iOS due to security vulnerabilities. Use instead:

• 📶 Manual connection via Wi-Fi password.
• 📱 Function Fast connection (starting from iOS 11), if the router supports Apple Wi-Fi Easy Connect.

❓ How do I disable WPS on my router?

Go to the router's web interface (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) And:

1. Go to the section Wi-Fi → WPS or Wireless Network → Security.
2. Select Disable WPS or uncheck Enable WPS.
3. Save the settings.

On routers Keenetic path: Home Network → Access Point → Security Settings → WPS.

❓ How many devices can I connect via WPS?

There are no restrictions on quantity, but there are some nuances:

• 🔄 Each new connection requires re-activation of WPS (by push-button or PIN).
• ⏱️ The connection window is only open for 2 minutes.
• 📱 Some routers (for example, Zyxel Keenetic) limit the number of connections via WPS to 5–10 per hour.

❓ Is it possible to hack Wi-Fi via WPS?

Theoretically, yes. WPS vulnerabilities allow:

• 🔓 Pick up a PIN code in a few hours (attack) Reaver or Pixie Dust).
• 🕳️ Intercept authentication data if the router uses outdated protocols.

Protection:

• 🔒 Disable WPS in your router settings.
• 🔑 Use a complex Wi-Fi password (at least 12 characters with letters, numbers, and symbols).
• 🛡️ Turn on WPA3 instead of WPA2 (if the router supports it).