Users of modern routers, especially TP-Link models, often encounter a situation where a mysterious window appears on the smartphone or tablet screen when attempting to connect to a wireless network. It contains terms New TD (or New TD) and Current TD (Current TD), as well as a field for entering a six-digit PIN. This situation is puzzling, as the usual WiFi password entry is replaced by a request for some kind of authorization.
In fact, this is not a bug or a virus. This feature is part of the security system. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) or, more likely in modern firmware, a brute-force protection mechanism. The router temporarily blocks standard password entry and requires confirmation that you are physically near the device or have access to its settings.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at what these abbreviations mean, why the security system is activated at this particular time, and how to bypass this restriction to restore internet access. We'll cover both software solutions and hardware-based solutions.
⚠️ Attention: The security settings interface may vary depending on your router's firmware version. If the menus described below don't match yours, check the latest instructions on your device's manufacturer's official website, as manufacturers regularly update their security algorithms.
What is an AP in the context of WiFi networks?
First of all, it is necessary to clarify the terminology, since the abbreviation TD In this context, the term "Access Point" can be interpreted in two ways, although in 99% of cases it refers to an "Access Point" (AP). However, in the interfaces of some TP-Link routers, "AP" is sometimes mistakenly understood as Action Timer or a temporary security token.
When you see the "New AP" message, the system is telling you that a new temporary session ID has been generated for your MAC address (the unique identifier of your device). Current TD — this is the parameter the router expects to see to confirm the legitimacy of the connection. If these values don't match or require a PIN, then the mechanism has been triggered. WPS Push Button or protection from attacks.
The mechanism is simple: the router temporarily stops accepting standard WPA2/WPA3 passwords and waits for a special code. This prevents attackers from launching automated password guessing. Without physical access to the router or knowledge of the PIN code printed on the sticker, connection is impossible.
It is important to understand that TD In this case, it's not a static parameter of your network, but a dynamic key that changes every time you reset security settings or reboot the router in a certain mode. This is why old saved passwords on devices may stop working until the router is fully rebooted.
- 📡 TD as an Access Point: The main meaning, denoting the router's radio module itself, which distributes the signal.
- 🔑 TD as Token/Code: In the context of the error, it is a temporary connection session identifier.
- ⏱ Safety timer: A mechanism that blocks connections for a certain period of time after unsuccessful attempts.
Why does the router require a code instead of a password?
The situation when instead of the usual field for entering a password, a request to enter an 8-digit or 6-digit code appears is most often associated with the activation of the function WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This technology was developed to simplify the connection of devices without a convenient keyboard, such as printers or Smart TVs.
However, in recent years, router manufacturers such as TP-Link, Asus And Keenetic, use similar mechanisms to protect against hacking. If the security system detects multiple connection attempts with an incorrect password, it can temporarily block the standard authentication method. At this point, the router "thinks" an attack is underway and requires confirmation via WPS PIN code.
Another possible cause could be accidental activation of pairing mode. If someone in the household accidentally pressed the button WPS/Reset On the device's body, the router has entered code waiting mode. In this state, it ignores the regular password until either the timer expires (usually 2 minutes) or the correct PIN is entered.
Also worth mentioning is the function Blacklist (Blacklist). If your device was previously blocked by the network administrator or the router itself due to suspicious activity, attempting to reconnect may result in an authorization error, which the smartphone interface interprets as a requirement for a new AP or code.
Instructions: How to find the PIN code for connection
If your smartphone or laptop persistently requires a PIN to connect to the New TD, you need to find this code. In most cases, it is static and imprinted on the device during manufacturing. This is the most secure method, and doesn't require access to the web interface.
Pick up the router and turn it over. There should be a sticker with technical information on the bottom or back panel. Find the area labeled WPS PIN, PIN Code or simply PIN codeTypically, this is 8 digits, separated into two groups (e.g., 12345670). Enter these exact digits, ignoring the last checksum, if the input field only accepts 6 or 8 characters without separators.
In some cases, especially on routers TP-Link With green interface firmware, the PIN code can be changed by the user earlier. If the code on the sticker doesn't work, you'll have to reset the security settings through the web interface. To do this, connect to the router via cable or through the guest network (if available) and go to 192.168.0.1 or tplinklogin.net.
In the settings menu, look for the section Wireless (Wireless mode) -> WPSThere you'll see the current status and the option to disable the feature or generate a new PIN. Disabling WPS often solves the problem of constant code requests on phones, as it removes the mechanism that triggers these pop-ups.
☑️ Finding the WPS PIN
Comparison of WiFi network security methods
Understanding the differences between security methods helps avoid confusion with the New AP. Different protocols handle connection requests differently and use different authentication mechanisms. Below is a table comparing the main methods.
| Method of protection | Code type | Security level | Probability of PIN request |
|---|---|---|---|
| WPA2-Personal | Password (8-63 characters) | High | Low (only during attacks) |
| WPS (PIN Method) | 8-digit PIN | Low (vulnerable) | Very high |
| WPS (Push Button) | Physical button | Average | Only when pressed |
| WPA3 | Password + SAE | Very tall | Minimum |
As can be seen from the table, it is the method WPS is the source of problems with codes. Protocol WPA2 and new WPA3 Use complex passwords and don't require short numeric combinations during a standard connection. If your router supports WPA3, we recommend switching to it for increased security and eliminating unnecessary prompts.
However, it's worth considering the compatibility of older devices. Some budget smartphones or smart light bulbs may simply not recognize the network with this encryption type. WPA3In such cases, you have to go back to WPA2/WPA3 Mixed, which sometimes reactivates old verification mechanisms, perceived by the system as “New TD”.
Troubleshooting connection issues on Android and iOS
Mobile operating systems react differently to changes in security protocols. On devices Android A common error is "Unable to obtain IP address" or an endless "Obtaining IP address" loop when the router requires a code and the phone tries to send the password. In this case, you need to "forget" the network.
Go to WiFi settings, click on your network name and select Forget the Network (Forget Network). After this, try connecting again. If a window appears asking for a WPS PIN and you don't want to enter it, simply cancel the action and wait about 2-5 minutes. The router's security timer will expire, and it will start accepting regular passwords again.
On devices iOS (iPhone, iPad) The situation is similar. If the system displays "Incorrect Password" even though you're entering it correctly, the router may have blocked your MAC address. In this case, temporarily disabling WiFi on your phone, rebooting the router (unplug it for 10 seconds), and then re-enabling WiFi can help.
It's also worth checking the date and time on your device. If the clock is out of sync, security certificates may fail verification, and the router will consider the connection suspicious, requiring additional authorization via "New AP" or similar mechanisms.
- 📱 Android: Settings -> WiFi -> Forget network -> Reconnect.
- 🍏 iOS: Settings -> Wi-Fi -> (i) next to the network -> Forget this network.
- 🔄 Universal: Restarting the router and phone often solves the problem of keys getting out of sync.
Setting up security and disabling WPS
To ensure the issue with "New AP" and constant code requests doesn't return, it's recommended to change your router's security settings. As mentioned earlier, the function WPS It's considered outdated and vulnerable. Disabling it is the best step for network stability.
To do this, log into the router's web interface. The login address is usually located on a sticker at the bottom (often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Enter the administrator login and password. Find the section Wireless (Wireless mode) or Wi-Fi SettingsThere will be a tab there. WPS.
In this section, select the option Disable (Disable) or OffSave the settings. After this, the router will restart the wireless module. All devices will be disconnected, and you'll have to re-enter the WiFi password on each device, but PIN code requests will disappear forever.
⚠️ Attention: Once WPS is disabled, you won't be able to connect new devices by pressing the button on the router. Connection will only be possible by manually entering the password.
If you use a router from a provider (for example, Rostelecom, Beeline, MGTS), the settings may be hidden or changed. In this case, if standard methods don't help, it's worth calling your provider's technical support. They can remotely reset the security profile or provide a PIN code specific to your model.
What should you do if you forgot your router settings password?
If you changed the administrator password and forgot it, the only option is a full reset. Find the small hole marked "Reset" on the router's case and press it with a paperclip for 10-15 seconds while the router is turned on. The device will return to factory settings, and the password will be the one on the sticker.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect to WiFi without entering a PIN if the WPS indicator is on?
Yes, you can. If the WPS indicator on your router is blinking, it means it's waiting for confirmation. Instead of entering the numbers, you can simply press the physical WPS button on the router (usually hold it for 2-3 seconds). The router and phone will exchange keys automatically, and you won't need to enter a code.
Is it safe to use WPS for a permanent connection?
No, cybersecurity experts don't recommend keeping WPS enabled all the time. This protocol has vulnerabilities that allow attackers to easily brute-force your PIN and gain access to your network. It's best to use it sparingly or disable it entirely.
Why does one phone ask for a code, but not another?
This depends on the operating system version and WiFi drivers. Some older versions of Android (before 9-10) more aggressively attempt to use WPS to speed up the connection, while newer iOS and Android prefer the standard password entry method, ignoring router requests until a certain point.
Will the "New TD" change after rebooting the router?
Yes, temporary tokens and sessions (APs) are reset upon reboot. If you're experiencing connection issues, a full router reboot (power off for 10 seconds) is the first step. This will clear the active sessions table.