Technology is getting smarter day by day. It sometimes becomes hard to keep up with things. Which, at times, makes you feel confused about how to use a particular device/system. Wi-Fi Protected Setup is one piece of invention that promised to facilitate the users who are not very tech-savvy. It became quite popular at the time of its introduction. However, later, many new issues popped up that slowly decreased its significance.
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What Is Wi-Fi Protected Setup?
The basic motive behind developing this device was to pave the way for better connectivity. It allows your device and the wireless router to connect more smoothly and strongly. If your router also requires a passcode, for instance, a Cox Wi-Fi password, then this setup will surely work for you.
You have to keep in mind that WPS will not function if your router is utilizing the WEP security protocol instead of WPA or WPA2. With this setup, you can easily set up Wi-Fi on your device without needing to enter the password on every other device. So, if you live in a secure neighborhood, then this setup is pretty much safe and feasible for you.
How Does It Work?
There are three approaches to enable this feature on your router. However, it is important to note that if you have Nest Wi-Fi systems installed at your home or workplace, then you won’t be able to set up this system there. The three approaches to enable this setup are:
PIN Entry
It is an approach that can be used for every device at your home. A unique pin or passcode can be generated that is used by multiple users to easily join the network. You have the option to generate a fixed pin or a dynamic one.
This pin or passcode will make sure that no unknown device/person can connect to your network. Also, it will keep your device safe from harmful and malicious attacks. The system itself will authenticate your device and keep the information shared between different devices encrypted.
Near Field Communication
It is a less-secure alternative to the PIN method. It transmits the network information to your preferred device through an interface. Because of this kind of transmission, the need for passcode or pin is bypassed. It still protects your devices against malicious attacks and eavesdropping. Unlike the PIN method, this one is optional for the users.
Push-Button Configuration
If you are not good at technology at all, you can connect all your devices to your home Wi-Fi simultaneously. This method requires the user to push a button on the router and enable the settings on your devices. However, it is quite an insecure method as well.
This is because other users/ hackers can also join your network easily and steal private information. So, it is better to protect your network with a passcode or an interface.
How to Find WPS?
Most of the users enable WPS through routers. This is because they have a Wi-Fi network installed in their homes. Most of the routers available in the market are fully capable of supporting the WPS system. Many of these routers already of the WPS system enabled on them.
In case, it is not enabled, you can enable it by following the three above-mentioned methods. On some of the routers, the key for WPS is available on the rear side of the router. If you are able to find the button, then press it to enable the WPS settings on your device.
In some routers, there might be a single button controlling two functions. For instance, by turning or device on or off, the WPS system will also get enabled or disabled. But you might need to keep pressing the button for a few seconds to enable this feature. Other devices have a specific button with a label on their front or rear side. So, it is quite easy to find and press them.
Which Systems Support WPS?
Many popular operating systems can support the WPS system. If you have a compatible and affordable Internet service installed at your home, then Windows 10, 7, 8.1, and Vista can support the WPS. Similarly, all new versions of Android can fully support WPS. Nest or mesh networks and iOS can’t support this system on any of their devices.
Common Issues
WPS is not used by a wide population for a couple of reasons. Firstly, even if you are entering a PIN to set it up, it is not completely secure. The PIN is generated by the router/device and can be quite vulnerable to theft. Hackers can use their expert ways to determine the PIN and easily steal your private information.
Many other online researchers and users claim that the WPS system is quite flawed in terms of security. So, it is always better to read those articles before enabling this system on your device and inviting unwanted threats.
