WPS Explained: What It Is and Why You Should Turn It Off

What is WPS?

WPS stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup. It is a feature designed to make it easier to connect a device to a secured Wi-Fi network. Instead of typing a long passphrase into a printer, TV, or phone, WPS lets the router and the device set up the connection through a button press or a short code.

WPS is about convenience, not performance. It does not improve speed, range, or reliability. It is simply an alternate way to add a device to your network. If you already use a strong Wi-Fi passphrase, you can often ignore WPS entirely. For a broader look at keeping your network safe, start with router security basics.

How WPS setup works

Most routers that include WPS support two methods. The push-button method is the more common one. You press a physical or on-screen WPS button on the router, then choose WPS in the device's network settings. The router and device exchange credentials automatically and the device joins the network.

The PIN method works differently. The router displays a short numeric code, and you enter that code on the device you want to connect. In some cases, the device displays a code and you enter it into the router's admin page. The PIN method exists mainly for devices without a WPS button, such as older printers and some media players.

Both methods are meant to reduce the amount of typing you have to do. The tradeoff is that WPS can create an additional way for someone to attempt to join your network. Modern security standards such as WPA3 are designed to resist password guessing, but WPS can be a separate feature governed by its own rules. See WPA3 for why the newer security protocol matters.

Why you should turn WPS off

The main reason to turn off WPS is security. The push-button method is less risky because it usually requires physical access to the router. The PIN method is more concerning, because a short numeric code can be guessed far more easily than a strong passphrase. An attacker who is within range of your Wi-Fi signal may be able to attempt many guesses without you noticing.

Cybersecurity guidance from organizations such as NIST emphasizes reducing unnecessary exposure and using stronger authentication. The Wi-Fi Alliance now requires WPA3 for Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices, and WPA3 includes protections against password guessing. Keeping WPS enabled, especially with the PIN method active, can undermine the strength of an otherwise secure Wi-Fi network.

If you do not have a device that needs WPS, disabling it removes a potential entry point with no downside. If you have a device that requires WPS, consider using it once during setup and then disabling it afterward. For a general overview of protecting your network, see router security basics.

How to disable WPS on your router

Disabling WPS is usually a small change in the router's administrative interface. Log in to your router, find the wireless or security section, and look for a WPS setting. Many routers let you turn off WPS entirely, while others let you disable just the PIN method and keep the push-button method.

If your router does not show a WPS toggle, update the firmware first. Manufacturers sometimes change the options available in newer firmware versions. You can also set your Wi-Fi security to WPA3 or WPA2/WPA3 and use a long, unique passphrase; this may disable the older WPS connection path on some routers. Enabling automatic firmware updates is another way to keep the router's settings page current.

• Turn off WPS in the wireless settings.
• If you must keep it, disable only the PIN method.
• Reconnect devices using the Wi-Fi passphrase.
• Check the guest network settings so visitors do not need your main passphrase.

What to use instead of WPS

The best replacement for WPS is the standard Wi-Fi passphrase. With WPA3, your network is protected by modern encryption and authentication, and the Wi-Fi Alliance lists WPA3 as mandatory for Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices. Choose a passphrase that is long, unique, and easy for you to remember but hard for someone else to guess.

Many modern routers also offer app-based setup or a QR code that a phone can scan. These methods are more secure than WPS because they do not rely on a short numeric code. For devices that are stationary, such as a desktop computer or a TV, an Ethernet cable is an even better option because it avoids wireless setup entirely.

If you regularly have guests, create a separate guest network instead of sharing your main passphrase. That way visitors can get online without having access to the rest of your devices.

Which router should you pick?

When you buy a router, look for one that supports WPA3 and includes an easy way to manage security settings. Newer Wi-Fi generations, such as Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, come with better security and performance features, but the exact WPS behavior varies by model.

If you want a straightforward home network, a modern Wi-Fi 6 router is a solid choice. For whole-home coverage with app-based setup, a mesh system is often easier to manage. If you travel and connect to hotel or public networks, a travel router gives you your own secure connection. For a smaller space or a simple setup, a budget-friendly router may be all you need.

What to pick for your use

Questions

What does WPS stand for?

Wi-Fi Protected Setup. It is a convenience feature that helps you connect devices to a secured Wi-Fi network without typing a passphrase.

Is WPS a security protocol like WPA3?

No. WPS is a setup feature, while WPA2 and WPA3 are security protocols that protect the network. The Wi-Fi Alliance requires WPA3 on Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices, but WPS can still be present as a separate option.

Should I turn off WPS?

Yes, in most cases. If no device needs WPS, disabling it removes an unnecessary way for someone to try to join your network. You can connect devices with the Wi-Fi passphrase instead.

Is the WPS push-button method safe?

The push-button method is less risky than the PIN method because it requires physical access to the router. Still, if you do not need it, disabling it is the cleanest choice.

Does turning off WPS slow down my Wi-Fi?

No. WPS is only for joining devices to the network. It has no effect on speed, range, or reliability once devices are connected.

What if my router does not let me disable WPS?

Update the firmware and look again. If the option is still missing, set the strongest supported Wi-Fi security, use a long passphrase, and consider a router that gives you more control over security settings.