What is WPS on a router: methods and features of application. Getting a WPA key for Wi-Fi using vulnerable WPS technology
The abbreviation WPS on a router is an abbreviation for “Wi-Fi Protected Setup”. The technology was created to simplify the connection of various devices to the network. It is supported by almost all routers. Its main advantage is that you don’t have to enter a password on your phone or laptop to connect. This is especially true when you have forgotten your Wi-Fi password, and it is not possible to look in the router settings. The article will describe in detail the functioning of this technology, as well as provide instructions for its use.
How WPS mode works
Now that we have found out what WPS is, it is worth talking about the algorithm of this technology. For creating wireless network the user needs to configure the router's access point and connect to local network of your device by entering your security password.
WPS greatly simplifies this procedure. The controller generates a random password automatically and then transmits it to the device that connects to the network via Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Thanks to this, you do not have to independently search for your network among others and manually enter the password
WPS protocol is supported by operating systems Windows systems and most mobile gadgets running Android OS. On those operating systems that do not have built-in utilities, you can download a special driver that expands the functionality of the system.
Using WPS (QSS) on a router
You can connect devices to the router using WPS either hardware or software. It all depends on the gadget you connect to the wireless network.
Hardware connection: what is it and how is it used
The first option involves only two actions: you need to press the buttons with the corresponding designation on the router and on the connected gadget. The WPS button on a router is usually located on the back panel of the device.
In some cases, the button is combined with the reset function (RESET). If you do not want to reset the router to factory settings, do not hold it for more than 5 seconds. The corresponding light indicator on the front panel of the router will notify you that the WPS function is activated.
Software connection of mobile phone/tablet
The Android operating system includes a connection function via WPS. To use it, follow the instructions below, namely:
If everything is done correctly, the smartphone will connect to your local network.
Connecting a Windows device
You can use Wi-Fi on your laptop after establishing a connection with the router via WPS. To do this, you need to follow several steps:
If you need to disable this protocol on routers, simply press the button (if it is not there, you can only disable WPS on the router through the settings).
What to do if there is no WPS button on the router: examples of activation
Many models do not provide hardware enablement of the Wi-Fi Protected Setup protocol. This means that the connection occurs via WEB interface. To do this you need to do the following:
After completing these manipulations, you will be able to use Wi-Fi without any problems. Often the eight-digit PIN combination is indicated on a sticker that is attached to the modem case.
There is an alternative option for connecting mobile devices:
When the correct combination is administered, mobile phone or tablet will be connected to the network. This function allows you to connect any devices that support this protocol to Wi-Fi.
How to disable WPS through settings
To deactivate, you need to click the “Disable” button in the corresponding section of the router or select the Disabled item.
Most likely, most users do not even realize that their routers have such technology as WPS (or QSS). In short and in simple language, then WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a technology that is designed specifically to simplify connecting devices to Wi-Fi networks. With WPS you can connect devices to Wi-Fi router without having to enter your wireless network password. Which is very convenient.
Almost every modern router has a WPS button. The same section is in the router settings. And many are interested in the question, what is this WPS button for, what is it even, and how to use this technology. We will consider all these questions in detail in the article.
I'll show you how to connect different devices to a Wi-Fi network without entering a password (laptops, Android mobile devices), and how to set up (enable or disable) WPS on different routers (TP-LINK, ASUS, D-LINK, ZyXel).
What is the WPS button on the router for and how to use it?
The button is needed to activate WPS technology. There is such a button on almost all routers. It is usually signed WPS. It looks something like this (on an ASUS router):
Not infrequently, the button is combined with the function of resetting the router settings. This happens very often on routers from TP-LINK.
Be careful not to press the "WPS/RESET" button for a long time. After holding it for about 5 seconds, your router's settings will be reset to factory settings.
And on new routers from ZyXel, the button to enable the WPS function looks like this:
In any case, finding such a button on the body of your router is not at all difficult. Well, if it’s not there, then go to the router settings and look for the corresponding item in the control panel (below in the article I’ll show you how to do this).
The function is activated with one click of a button. In the case of my ASUS router, you need to hold the button for 1 second. When the WPS function is activated, the indicator on the router will most likely start blinking. The power indicator on the ASUS router is blinking. Some routers have a separate indicator, usually in the form of a lock. The function is activated for a while, then the indicator stops flashing. It can be reactivated by simply pressing a button.
How to connect to Wi-Fi without entering a password via WPS (QSS)?
We've figured out how to activate the technology on the router, let's now look at the process of connecting different devices.
Ways to connect to a Wi-Fi network without entering a password (via WPS):
- When there is a WPS button on the router and on the device you are connecting. For example, an external USB Wi-Fi receiver, then just press a button on both devices and the connection will be established.
- If the device you want to connect to Wi-Fi does not have a mechanical button, and it does not exist on laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc., then WPS is activated by a button on the router, and on a computer, for example, the connection occurs automatically. On mobile devices, in the settings we simply select a connection using WPS. It all depends on the specific device.
- There are router models that do not have a WPS button. But this does not mean that the technology is not supported. In any case, you can activate this technology through the router settings.
- Connection using a PIN code. In the settings of the WPS function, a special PIN code is specified, with which you can also connect devices. Simply select the appropriate connection method and enter the code.
To connect to Wi-Fi using the methods described below, your router must have WPS enabled. It is enabled by default, but was disabled on my D-LINK. So, if you haven't disabled anything, everything will work. If something doesn’t work out, then you need to check the settings. I will write how to do this below in the article.
We connect a computer (laptop) on Windows 7, 8, 10 to Wi-Fi via WPS
Everything is very simple here. Open the list of networks available for connection on your computer, select the required network, and click on the “Connect” button.
A password entry window will appear. And below, there should be a message “You can also connect by pressing the button on the router.” You may have to wait a couple of seconds for this message to appear.
Now, press WPS button on the router, and the computer will connect to Wi-Fi without entering a password.
That's all, you can use it wireless connection to the Internet. There is no need to disable anything on the router.
If you have an adapter with a WPS (QSS) button
For example, I have a WPS button on my ASUS router, and a QSS button on TP-LINK.
When you press the button on both devices, a connection should be established. This is true, but as far as I understand, a proprietary utility must be installed on the computer Wi-Fi adapter. It is located on the disk that comes with the kit. You can also download it from the official website for your adapter model.
Connecting via WPS smartphones and tablets on Android
To connect to Wi-Fi without entering a password on Android, you need to go to Wi-Fi settings, select advanced settings, then select a connection using WPS, and press the button on the router. The smartphone or tablet will automatically connect to the Wi-Fi network.
On different devices, these settings may look different. But the procedure will be the same. There you can also choose to connect via WPS using a PIN code.
Even with , you can use WPS technology.
As for iOS (iPhone, iPad, etc.), as far as I understand, there is no WPS support. If I'm wrong, if you know, then write to me in the comments.
How to enable, disable and configure WPS (QSS) on a router?
Let's look at the basic settings Wi-Fi technology Protected Setup on routers from different manufacturers. There are practically no settings there. It's basically a technology shutdown. (since it is enabled by default), and changing the PIN code.
On TP-LINK routers
Go to the router settings and go to the "WPS" tab. If you don’t know how to log into the control panel, then see the instructions.
Managing WPS on ASUS routers
If you have an ASUS router, then go to the “Wireless Network” tab – “WPS”.
Quick Wi-Fi setup (WPS) on ZyXEL Keenetic
Just open the "Wi-Fi network" tab in the settings. There you will see the necessary settings.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup on D-LINK
Go to , go to the “Wi-Fi” – “WPS” tab. By the way, as it turns out, this technology is disabled by default on D-LINK routers. Therefore, it needs to be turned on.
Well, don’t forget to save your settings.
conclusions
With WPS (QSS), you can really quickly connect your device to Wi-Fi without entering a password. The technology works and is very easy to use. Personally, I have only used this feature a few times. There is no need to frequently connect new devices, and entering a password is not difficult.
By the way, if you do not use the WPS function, then it is advisable to disable it. Honestly, I don’t know why, but I’ve already come across information several times that it is advisable to disable it for security reasons. Although, I think this is complete nonsense. The main thing is that it is convenient for you to use the wireless network, connect new devices, etc.
Standard WPS was created specifically for simple, fast, and most importantly effective connection of compatible devices to a wireless Wi-Fi network.
I realize that writing about old standards is not at all cool! What to do if 60% have not even heard of such a standard.
Often people complain to me that their router has been hacked. Of course I say or write - TROUBLE FRIEND!
And I’ll just remind you of a few trivial tips to improve the protection of home routers from hacking, specifically WPS.
Its main goal is to automate the process of setting up a wireless Wi-Fi network, which greatly simplifies the life of users of wireless devices.
This is good, so let’s talk a little about how to set up WPS and then why many people turn it off.
Setting up a wireless WiFi network using the WPS function takes minimal time.
To connect a device, you just need to press the button of the same name and wait for the wireless devices to communicate with each other.
This efficient technology allows for very short time configure the Wi-Fi network.
Let me remind you:
You must enter the following numbers into the address bar: “192.168.0.1”. After the transition, a new authorization window will appear, in which you need to enter the word “admin” or the desired one if you have set a password in the “Username” and “Password” fields.
Let's go, what's next...
The essence of WPS technology is that all important parameters are transferred from the router to the controller after a special request.
Such a request is sent using various methods.
You can use the WPS button on the router panel, you can use a special unique PIN code, you can enable the WPS function in the router settings.
In some router models, this button is combined with the Reset button, which is used to reset settings. Some manufacturers use the name QSS instead of WPS.
However, you can still find gadgets that do not implement the WPS function. In addition, on personal computers and laptops the WPS button is not located, although operating system often supports this technology.
The presence or absence of a WPS button may affect the WPS connection method.
We wait 1-2 minutes.
During this time, both devices will communicate with each other, and all necessary connection parameters will be configured automatically.
Please note that on some routers the WPS and Reset buttons are combined into one.
To use such a button as WPS, do not press it for more than 4 seconds, otherwise it will work as Reset and reset all settings of the router.
WPS authorization methods:
PBC (Push Button Configuration) mode
Authorization using PIN code
If both the router and the connected device have a WPS button, then the user does not need to make any settings to connect to the Wi-Fi network.
Press and hold the WPS button on the device for 2-3 seconds and release. After this, hold down the WPS button on the router for 2-3 seconds and release.
Small additions...
Operating systems of the Windows family, starting with Vista SP2, boast support for WPS technology. For those operating systems that do not support WPS, specialized software utilities are released that make it possible to use WPS to connect to a Wi-Fi network.
Most often, the PIN code is written on the router label and located on its bottom panel. This code can be changed in the router settings.
The WPS button is most often installed on the front, side or back panel of the router. You need to press it for 2-3 seconds.
Sometimes it is signed as QSS or combined with the Reset button. In the second case, the main thing is not to overdo it with the time you hold down the button, since otherwise it may reset the settings.
When setting up a WPS wireless network, be sure to remember or write down the security key.
Benefits of WPS:
Connect to a Wi-Fi network with the press of one button
Simplicity and ease of connection
High speed connecting devices to a wireless network
Possibility of setting up a network without entering the WEB interface
Automatic assignment of a network name and security key for the router
The device does not need to know the network name and security key to connect to Wi-Fi
Disadvantages of WPS:
Difficulty connecting an incompatible device to a network configured with WPS
You can use brute force to hack your PIN code
Now we’ve come to the point why such a good technology is dangerous to use.
And so, this technology is supported by many routers and is the most vulnerable. Represents a button on the router, or an 8-digit PIN that sends network parameters. Of course, the PIN can be easily found by brute force.
On this moment The most current hacking method is to select a WPS pin.
To brute force the PIN, the router must have WPS mode enabled, which is often the case in this state, but it happens that it is turned off, but this does not guarantee that it is really turned off.
The PIN code consists of eight digits - therefore, there are 108 (100’000’000) options for selection.
However, the number of options can be significantly reduced.
The fact is that the last digit of the PIN code is a kind of checksum, which is calculated based on the first seven digits.
As a result, we already get 107 (10’000’000) options. The vulnerability of the protocol allows you to split the PIN code into two parts, 4 and 3 digits, and check each separately for validity.
Therefore, we get 104 (10’000) options for the first half and 103 (1000) for the second. As a result, there are only 11,000 options for a complete search, which is ~910 times less.
Hacking protection
For now, there is only one way to protect yourself from an attack - disable QSS WPS in the router settings.
For example (TP-Link), enter 192.168.0.1 in the browser line and press enter. A window will appear in which you will need to log in, that is, enter your username and password.
Next, in the menu on the left, find the item that will talk about QSS. Find the Disable QSS button.
"Reboot". Or just unplug the router from the outlet for a few seconds - the effect is the same. This instruction is suitable for TP-LINK routers
True, this is not always possible. Because the vulnerability does not exist at the implementation level, but at the protocol level.
The most that manufacturers can do is to release firmware that allows a timeout to be introduced to block the user, for example, after 5 unsuccessful attempts to enter a PIN code, which will complicate brute force and increase the time it takes for an attacker to select an identifier.
Another way is to use not only numbers, but also letters in the PIN. Seriously, you just have to accept that everything around you is potentially vulnerable. There are no conspiracy theories or mysterious Big Brother here.
If you are afraid of everything, just turn off WPS! Routers that do not support this technology are safer. WPS is not even a new invention at all :) However, main point safety articles. Like, it wouldn’t hurt to disable this function if you use WiFi in crowded places (cafes, shops, etc.)
We also read:
Good luck, Friends!
This term stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup. This is a special technology that makes it easier connection to WiFi. Any user who prefers this method will be able to connect to WiFi networks easy and fast.
All routers modern type have this button. And in the router settings there is a section with the same name.
If you are one of those people who forgets or loses their passwords, WPS is what you need. After all, you don’t have to enter anything here, but simply press one button on the router to connect. Everything seems simple, but the average user may not understand what's what. Let's try to figure it out.
How to use WPS
If you have a WiFi adapter that supports the WPS function, connecting to the router will be very easy. This is hardware method. You just need to hold down special buttons on both devices.
By the way, sometimes this button is also reset all router settings, so it’s better not to hold it for more than 5 seconds.
Next, the WiFi adapter will be connected to the router. The network name will remain the same, and the password will be generated automatically. Because of this, this method is only suitable for initial setup router configuration.
Setting up WiFi via WPS on Windows 7
Wi-Fi on the router can be configured using Windows using the method Wi-Fi Protected Setup. To do this, you will have to press a special button on the Internet distribution device (sometimes this is not necessary) and make a connection to an open WiFi network.
Now the connection to WiFi of the device on which the setup took place will occur in automatic mode. If you need to connect from other devices, then look for the name of your network in the list and click the button connect. Next, either enter a password or press a button on the Internet distributor WPS for 2-3 seconds. After which the device connects.
Enabling and disabling WPS on routers
There are times when you need to activate or deactivate the WPS function on a router. Also, if necessary, you can find out tune pin. To do this, you will need to make enter settings wireless internet distribution devices.
Setting up wps on Dlink
The method is perfectly compatible with all models of the d-link series, for example d link dir 615, d link dir 320, d link dir 620. The setup begins by entering the desired interface, after which you should go to additional settings. Next is where the column is WiFi you need to click on the arrow. 
A list will appear where you can select WPS.
You will see a window with all available configurations WPS. There you can activate or disable this function by checking or unchecking the box. The pin code is also indicated below.
WPS control in Asus
These settings are suitable for any models of Asus routers. After entering the settings, you need to select in the left menu, the item called “ Wireless network" And in the top menu select wps and get access to what you need settings. Here, as in the previous model of routers, you can include or turn off wps and also see pin.
TpLink - wps or QSS
The question immediately arises, what is QSS? So, nothing special really. This is the same WPS just named differently. Customizable it also has the same functions. To configure, you need to go to router parameters and find the section there WPS. Here you can make inclusion or shutdown this function. 
Also in the settings there are many other useful and important functions that would be worth studying.
Enabling and disabling wps on ZyXel
Due to ZyXel developing new firmware, this method is suitable for the following models zyxel keenetic ultra, zyxel keenetic, zyxel keenetic lite, zyxel keenetic 4g. You need to go to special settings router and select the item called WiFi. At the bottom of the window there will be setting, which allows you to turn wps on or off, and accordingly the pin code itself. 
Vulnerability of WPS technologies
How are wireless networks hacked? Right. A PIN code is selected. So, back in 2011, serious problems were discovered in this system. weak spots . Since that moment, quite a lot of software has been created that allows, using the selection method, to determine the PIN code of the device. To choose the right one, all you need is few hours, since there are 11000 methods. And this is very little.
If we talk about older models of devices for distributing the Internet, then everything is even worse. Manufacturers used the same PIN codes. Thus, hackers compiled a database of them and used it. In new routers, the protection is much better. It happens thanks to upgraded firmware, when an incorrect PIN code is entered a certain number of times, the system sets temporary blocking.
If you are not sure that your firmware can provide good protection against hacking via WPS, then it is better to disable this risky function.
The technology really allows you to quickly connect without entering a password. It's working and quite simple.
If you do not need this function, then disable it. It is advisable to do this for security reasons.
You may have already noticed that the router has a WPS button, usually located on the back or side of its case, but there are models such as the DIR-615 K2, where it is located on the front. Sometimes on routers the manufacturer likes to combine the WPS button either with the wireless network button or even with Reset, as on TP-Link and D-Link. Usually the button is simply labeled WPS, but sometimes it can be marked with an arrow icon or a WiFi icon with a padlock. Below in the picture I have selected all the most common options.
Nowadays it is almost impossible to find a modern wireless device that does not support this function. Let's figure out what it is and what it is used for?!
What is WPS
Fast secure setup standard Wi-Fi Protected Setup or WPS for short, has been actively used in wireless networks since 2007. What it is? WPS is a special feature thanks to which the client can quickly connect to a router or point WiFi access, using either simultaneous pressing of the VPS button on both devices, or using a special PIN code. IN Lately Wi-Fi function Protected Setup is enabled by default on all routers and Wi-Fi access points. The WPS PIN code is written on a sticker glued to the body of the device:
If necessary, the function can be disabled. I’ll say even more here - it needs to be turned off and I’ll explain why a little later.
Pros of WPS technology:
Allows you to quickly and easily connect any device to the router’s WiFi network. To do this, you do not need to know either the SSID or the Wi-Fi password;
To connect, you do not need to know the network security key - just have a PIN code;
No need to have access to the router settings. You just need to press the VPS button on it and on the device you want to connect.
Disadvantages of WPS technology:
— Often this is the main security hole in even a fairly well-protected wireless network;
— If an attacker has physical access to an access point, then he can connect to it without needing to have access to its settings;
— If the WPS button is combined with the Reset button, then if the sequence of actions is incorrect, there is a risk of completely resetting the device.
How to use WPS Connect
The procedure for connecting client devices to a WiFi router using Wi-Fi Protected Setup technology is as follows:
1.Press the WPS button and hold it for several seconds. If there is a corresponding indicator on the front side of the router, it should start blinking.
Here, keep in mind that if the button for quickly connecting to Wi-Fi is combined with Reset, then holding WPS pressed for more than 3-4 seconds is undesirable, as it risks resetting the settings to factory settings. Now, after you have activated the search for devices on the router, you need to press the WPS button on the connected device.
Connecting WPS in Windows 10 and Windows 8.1
After you press the WPS button on the router, it’s easy enough to just start connecting to this network within a couple of minutes. The moment the system asks you to enter your Wi-Fi password, just wait.
After a few seconds, your computer or laptop will connect to the wireless network and you can use it!
Virtual WPS Button in Android
Not all devices have a real WPS button - on many it is virtual, that is, it is made in software. A striking example is the mobile operating room. Android system. To use the secure network setup feature on your phone or tablet, first go to settings, then open WiFi settings, and there are advanced settings:
Among other available options, there will be a virtual WPS button. Click on it. After this, the following window will appear on the screen:
Now is the time to press the VPS button on your router or access point, if you have not done so before. Once the connection is completed successfully, the feature will be disabled on both devices.
What is PIN code for WPS
In some cases, instead of the WPS button on the router, you use a PIN code. It is usually written on a sticker glued to the bottom of the device. You can also view the PIN code through the router’s web interface. On many models both options are used simultaneously.
WPS PIN is a sequence of 8 digits. It can be used to connect to wireless instead of a Wi-Fi password. At the same time, it is absolutely not necessary to press the button on the router if the WPS function is enabled in its settings.
Unfortunately, along with the ease of connection, you also get a bunch of security problems. Firstly, very often the manufacturer uses the same VPS pin code for all routers of the same model. Secondly, the number of combinations is quite small and choosing a router PIN is quite possible, spending from 5 to 30 hours on it.