How To Disable Wi-Fi Protected Setup WPS on Router

Why Disable Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)?

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a feature designed to simplify the process of connecting devices to a wireless network, but it comes with significant security risks. Disabling WPS is crucial to protect your network from potential brute force attacks and unauthorized access.

Understanding WPS Security Risks

WPS allows devices to connect to a network by either pressing a button on the router and the device or by entering an 8-digit PIN. However, this convenience comes at a cost. The WPS protocol has been shown to be vulnerable to brute force attacks, where hackers can guess the PIN in a relatively short period, often between 30 minutes to a day. This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to your network, allowing malicious users to change your router settings or access sensitive information.

Steps to Disable WPS on Your Router

Disabling WPS varies slightly depending on the router model, but the general steps are similar across most devices.

1. Log into Your Router's Admin Console

   • Open a web browser and navigate to the IP address of your router, typically 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If you're unsure, refer to your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for the correct IP address.

2. Enter Login Credentials

   • Enter your admin username and password. If you haven't changed these, they are usually found in the router's manual or on a sticker on the router itself.

3. Navigate to WPS Settings

• Once logged in, navigate to the Advanced Settings or Wireless Settings section. This may vary depending on your router model. For example, on some TP-Link routers, you would go to Advanced >> Wireless >> WPS.

4. Disable WPS

   • Look for the WPS settings and disable it. This might be labeled as "Disable Router's PIN" or "Disable WPS." If there is no explicit disable option, look for an "Enable Router's PIN" checkbox and uncheck it.

5. Save Changes

   • After disabling WPS, click the "Apply" or "Save" button to save the changes. This ensures that the new settings take effect immediately.

Additional Considerations

• Check for Firmware Updates: Ensure your router's firmware is up to date, as newer firmware versions may include security patches for WPS vulnerabilities.
• Use Alternative Connection Methods: Instead of relying on WPS, use the network password to connect devices to your network. This method is more secure and does not expose your network to the risks associated with WPS.
• Physical Access Restrictions: If the router is in a secure location where physical access is restricted, the risks associated with WPS are reduced. However, it is still advisable to disable WPS for maximum security.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• No Disable Option: Some routers may not provide a clear option to disable WPS. In such cases, check the router's manual or contact the manufacturer's support for specific instructions.
• WPS Not Fully Disabled: There have been instances where disabling WPS does not fully disable the feature. Always verify that WPS is completely disabled after making the changes.

By following these steps and considering the additional tips, you can significantly enhance the security of your home network by disabling the vulnerable WPS feature.