WPS, an acronym for "Wi-Fi Protected Setup," refers to a wireless network security standard designed to simplify the process of establishing a secure wireless home network. It is a feature commonly found on wireless routers and other devices that support wireless connectivity.
WPS allows users to connect devices, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets, to a wireless network without manually entering the network's password. It aims to streamline the setup process while ensuring the security of the network. Instead of typing a lengthy password, users can utilize WPS by pressing a button or entering a unique PIN to authenticate their devices with the network.
The setup process involves two modes: the push-button configuration and the personal identification number (PIN) method. In push-button configuration, the user presses the WPS button on both the router and the device they want to connect, establishing a secure connection. The PIN method requires the user to enter a unique PIN displayed by the router into the device's setup interface.
However, it is important to note that WPS has faced security concerns in the past, mainly related to vulnerabilities in its implementation. In some cases, attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to the network. As a result, it is recommended to disable WPS if not needed or use alternative security measures like WPA2-PSK (Wi-Fi Protected Access II - Pre-Shared Key) encryption for enhanced network security.
