In today's world, wireless networks have become an integral part of the infrastructure of any home or office, but few people think about the encryption technology that protects the data being transmitted. When you connect your smartphone to a router, a complex handshake occurs during which devices agree on traffic security methods. Understanding How to find out the WiFi security type, is a critical skill for any user who wants to protect their personal data from attackers.
Many router owners are unaware that their network may be open to outsiders or using outdated protocols that can be easily hacked in minutes. WEP and earlier versions WPA These have long ceased to be considered reliable, but they still appear in the settings of devices that haven't been updated in years. Ignoring this aspect can lead to the leakage of passwords for banking applications, correspondence, and confidential files.
In this article, we'll cover all the available methods for checking your current encryption settings, explain the differences between existing standards, and provide step-by-step instructions for various operating systems. You don't need to be a network engineer to perform basic diagnostics on your connection. All you need is a device with network access and the necessary information.
Key wireless encryption standards
Before moving on to practical verification steps, it's important to understand the theoretical basis, as these are the abbreviations you'll see in the settings. The history of WiFi has seen several stages of security protocol evolution, and each has its own vulnerabilities. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is the oldest standard, officially declared insecure back in 2004. Its use today is tantamount to a lack of protection, as automated tools exist that can crack such a key in a matter of seconds.
The outdated standard has been replaced by WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), which served as an interim solution until the release of the fully-fledged WPA2 certificate. Despite improvements over its predecessor, the original WPA also contains critical vulnerabilities in its implementation of the TKIP algorithm. Modern devices often mark networks with this type of security as "weak" or refuse to connect to them without warning the user.
The gold standard for many years remains WPA2 (AES), which provides reliable traffic encryption. This protocol is recommended for use in most home and corporate networks. However, it is not without its drawbacks, such as the KRACK vulnerability, although exploiting it requires an attacker to be in close proximity to the access point.
The most modern and safe solution is WPA3, which is being implemented in new router models released after 2018. This protocol fixes many security holes in previous versions, implements brute-force protection, and uses stronger encryption algorithms. If your equipment supports WPA3, upgrading to it is the best step to improve your security.
⚠️ Important: If you see a router with WEP or WPA (TKIP) security type in the list of available networks, immediately change the settings in your device's personal account. Using such networks for transmitting financial data is strictly not recommended.
Understanding the differences between these standards allows you not only to configure your router correctly but also to assess the risks when connecting to public hotspots. Always pay attention to the lock icon and encryption type in the connection details, especially when in cafes or airports.
Checking the security type on Windows 10 and 11
Windows operating systems offer built-in tools for quickly diagnosing network connections. Users don't need to install third-party software to obtain basic information about their current connection. This is the fastest way. Find out your WiFi security type, if you are already connected to the network.
First, you need to open the network management menu. Right-click the WiFi icon in the system tray (lower-right corner of the screen) and select "Network & Internet settings." In the window that opens, find your active connection and click Properties or the "Properties" link under your network name. In older versions of the interface, the path may look like this: Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
In the wireless network status window, click "Wireless Network Properties." Switch to the "Security" tab. Here, in the "Security Type" field, the current protocol will be displayed, for example, WPA2-Personal. Next to it, you'll see the encryption type, which should ideally be AES.
☑️ Security check in Windows
An alternative, more advanced method for experienced users is to use the command line. This method allows you to obtain more detailed technical information about your network profile. Open the command line (cmd) or PowerShell as an administrator and enter the command to view saved profiles:
netsh wlan show profilesAfter displaying a list of all saved networks, find the name of your current access point. To view details, including the security type, enter the following command, replacing "NetworkName" with the name of your WiFi:
netsh wlan show profile name="Network_Name" key=clearIn the command output, look for the "Security settings" section. It will list "Authentication"—this is the security type (e.g., WPA2-Personal)—and "Cipher," which should be AES. This method is convenient because it allows you to check the settings even for networks you've connected to before but aren't currently connected to.
How to set security settings on macOS and iOS
Apple ecosystem users can also easily check encryption settings, although the interface may differ depending on the operating system version. In macOS, network information is hidden a bit more deeply than in Windows, but is still accessible using standard tools.
On a Mac, click the WiFi icon in the menu bar. If you hold down the Option (Alt) Clicking the icon will open an expanded menu, where you'll immediately see the current connection's security type. For more detailed information, open "System Preferences" (or "System Settings" in newer versions), go to the "Network" section, select WiFi, and click "Advanced" or "More Details."
In the list of known networks, find the desired one and look in the "Security" column. The protocol will be listed here, for example, WPA2/WPA3 Personal. It's important to note that Apple actively promotes the use of WPA3 and marks networks using weak protocols with a special warning about reduced security.
On iPhones and iPads, the situation is slightly different. iOS hides technical connection details from the average user to minimize confusion. You can't easily see the encryption type used in the standard settings menu. However, if the network is unsecured, the system will display a warning with an exclamation point icon next to the network name.
How do I find out the encryption type on my iPhone?
To obtain detailed technical information on iOS (security type, channel, BSSID), you can use third-party utilities, such as Apple's AirPort Utility. Install the app, then find AirPort Utility in your iPhone's settings and turn on the "Wi-Fi Scanner" toggle. A scan button will then appear in the app itself, displaying all available networks and their RSSI, but the security type may still not be clearly displayed. In-depth analysis on iOS often requires a jailbreak or using a Mac with Console.app to view system logs in real time.
If you have a Mac, the most reliable way is to use the built-in Wireless Network Diagnostics utility. Click Option + click Click the WiFi icon and select "Open Wireless Network Diagnostics." From the top menu, select "Windows" → "Performance." Here you can see detailed information about the current connection, including the Security Type.
Diagnostics via Android smartphones
The Android mobile platform provides varying levels of access to network information depending on the OS version and the manufacturer's user interface. On most modern smartphones (Android 10 and above), detailed technical information is hidden, but basic data is accessible.
To check your security type, go to "Settings" → "Wi-Fi." Tap the name of your current network or the gear icon next to it. In the menu that opens, look for "Security" or "Security Type." This will indicate whether WPA2, WPA3, or another protocol is being used. On some devices, this information may be hidden in the "Advanced" or "More" section.
For more advanced analysis, you can use the "Wi-Fi Analyzer" app or similar tools from Google Play. These apps display a list of all nearby networks and their parameters, including channel, signal strength, and security type. This is useful not only for checking your router but also for analyzing airborne noise.
Owners of devices with root rights can use terminal emulators and commands iwlist or wpa_supplicant for comprehensive connection information. However, for the average user, the standard settings interface, which clearly specifies the standard used, is sufficient.
⚠️ Note: The Android settings interface varies greatly depending on the manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Pixel). If you don't find the "Security" option in the main network settings, try tapping the "Share" button (QR code). On some smartphones (e.g. Xiaomi), a line like "T:WPA;P:password;;" appears in small print below the QR code, where "T" denotes the security type.
Analysis via the router's web interface
The most reliable way to find out and, most importantly, change the security type is to log into the router's administrative panel. This displays the actual settings that apply to the signal broadcast, not just the data received by the client device. To log in, you need to know the gateway IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) and administrator credentials.
After authorization in the interface (which may look different for TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic or Mikrotik) You need to find the section related to wireless networking. Look for tabs named "Wireless," "Wi-Fi," and "Wireless Mode." Within this section, there will be a subsection called "Wireless Security."
This is where the active protocol is indicated in the "Version" or "Security Mode" drop-down list. You will be able to see if the value is selected. WPA2-PSK [AES] or newer WPA3-SAEThe password and key update interval are also configured here. Changing settings in this section requires rebooting the WiFi module, which will briefly disconnect all clients.
The table below provides a comparison of the main parameters you may find in the router interface:
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| WEP | An outdated, easily hacked standard | Never use |
| WPA-TKIP | Intermediate standard, low speed | Replace with WPA2 |
| WPA2-AES | A reliable standard, compatible with all devices | Recommended (basic) |
| WPA3 | The most modern and secure protocol | Recommended (if supported) |
Don't forget to save your settings after changing them. If you're switching from WPA2 to WPA3, make sure all your devices support the new standard, otherwise older devices may stop seeing the network.
Using specialized software for analysis
Professionals use specialized software for in-depth analysis of the radio frequency spectrum and detailed examination of data packets. These tools allow one to see not only the security type but also the handshake process, which is useful for auditing one's own network for vulnerabilities.
One of the most popular programs for Windows is inSSIDerIt scans the airwaves and creates a channel load chart, clearly indicating the Security Type for each access point found. The program is convenient because it visually highlights networks with open access or weak encryption.
For Linux users, especially those involved in penetration testing, the de facto standard is a set of tools Aircrack-ngUsing the utility airodump-ng You can get comprehensive information about all surrounding networks. The command is run in a terminal and requires the WiFi adapter to be set to monitor mode:
sudo airodump-ng wlan0monThe "ENC" (Encryption) column will display the encryption type: WEP, WPA, or WPA2. The "AUTH" (Authentication) column will display the authentication method, such as PSK (Pre-Shared Key) or MGT (Enterprise). This level of detail allows you to understand whether a corporate network uses a simple login-password pairing or more complex certificates.
Also worth mentioning are Android mobile apps such as Fing or WiFi AnalyzerThey don't require root access for basic scanning and display the security type in the general list of networks. This is a quick way to check your neighbors and ensure that no one is sharing Wi-Fi without a password within your range, creating interference and risks.
Frequently asked questions and compatibility issues
When changing security types, users often encounter connection issues. Older devices, manufactured 10-15 years ago, may simply not support WPA2 or WPA3. In such cases, the system will display "Unable to connect" or "Authentication error."
If you have a critical older device (like a smart plug or printer) that doesn't work with WPA2/WPA3, modern routers (like Keenetic or TP-Link) allow you to create a guest network with separate security settings. You can dedicate a guest SSID with WPA/TKIP protocol only to legacy devices, while leaving the main network secure according to modern standards.
Another common issue is confusion between Personal (PSK) and Enterprise modes. For home use, Personal is always used, with a simple password as the key. Enterprise requires a Radius server and is used in organizations for individual employee access.
Why doesn't my router allow me to select WPA3?
WPA3 requires hardware support from the router's WiFi module. If your router was manufactured before 2018 or is a budget model, it physically cannot support this protocol. In this case, WPA2 (AES) remains the best choice. Don't try to update the firmware in hopes of getting WPA3 on older hardware—it's impossible.
Regularly checking your security settings should become a habit. Router firmware updates can sometimes reset settings to defaults, which aren't always the most secure. Spend 5 minutes checking your security settings every six months.
Is it possible to crack WPA2 AES?
Theoretically, it's possible, but in practice, it's extremely difficult and time-consuming. The KRACK vulnerability allowed data interception, but it was fixed in security updates. The primary method for cracking WPA2 is brute-force. If your password is complex (longer than 12 characters, contains numbers and special characters), cracking it will take thousands of years, even on powerful hardware.
What is the difference between WPA2 Personal and Enterprise?
Personal (PSK) uses a single, shared password for all devices. This is convenient for home use. Enterprise (802.1x) requires separate authentication for each user through a server (usually RADIUS). This is useful for offices, allowing access to specific employees to be disabled without changing the password for the entire company.
Will my WiFi speed decrease when I enable WPA3?
No, your speed won't decrease. On the contrary, WPA3 is optimized for modern WiFi 6 and higher standards. However, if you have very old devices on your network that don't support WPA3, they simply won't be able to connect until you enable compatibility mode (WPA2/WPA3 Mixed).
How do I know who is connected to my WiFi?
The most reliable method is to access the router's web interface and view the client list (Client List / DHCP Server). All MAC addresses of connected devices will be displayed there. Third-party apps on your phone may display incorrect data or require root access.