This button is the Wi-Fi Protected Setup button. Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a simple way to connect to a wireless network without much configuration. With WPS, it will automatically configure a wireless network with a network name (SSID), WPA security key and authentication.
The WPS button on your router assumes that if someone is in touching range of the router, they're allowed to connect a device to it. So, instead of typing in that lengthy password, you can hit the WPS button and connect a device that way. When you press the WPS button, the router begins looking for compatible devices.
WPS stands for WiFi Protected Setup. A router with a WPS button can allow any device to automatically connect to your router when the WPS button is pressed. When you press the WPS button, your router looks for compatible devices right away and allows those devices automatically connect.
On most wireless routers, WPS is enabled by default. The intent is to make it easy for users to set up their network and add all their devices to their Wi-Fi. Therefore, after you set up your network and add the devices you want on your Wi-Fi, if security is a concern, it is a good idea to disable WPS on your router.
The WPS light will continue to flash and the router search for devices for up to 2 minutes. If it doesn't connect successfully in that time, it will usually reset and you will need to press it again to try a new connection.
The WPS button simplifies the connection process
Press the WPS button on your router to turn on the discovery of new devices. Then, go to your device and select the network you want to connect to. The device is automatically connected to the wireless network without having to enter the network password.
This is why we disable WPS. Once disabled, you'll need to use the conventional password method to add additional devices to your wi-fi network (less convenient) but your router will no longer be vulnerable to a WPS attack (more secure).
Use the modem's Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) feature
WPS lets you pair compatible devices like PCs, laptops and mobiles to your Telstra-supplied modem, without a password: On your device, go to Settings and then Wi-Fi. If your device is compatible with WPS, you can select it from the available options.
Press the WPS button on the device you wish to connect. Within 120 seconds, press the WPS button on the wireless router. Note: You will need to press and hold the WPS button on the wireless router for about 2-3 seconds. After a short period of time, your device and the wireless router will be connected.
The WPS does not handle the connection of Wifi but it handles the data sending between the client device(s) and the router. The WPS is a password-protected wireless network that supports the WPA (Wifi Protected Access Personal) or WPA2 (Wifi Protected Access2 Personal) security protocols.
If your Wi-Fi router supports WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), turn on the Wi-Fi function, and then make a Wi-Fi connection easily by pressing the button. Swipe the status bar down and tap - [WI-FI]. Make sure the Wi-Fi function is on.
Open a browser and enter the IP address for your router. Cisco devices feature different options that allow you to get both the IP address and default usernames and passwords for your specific hardware. Select Wireless > Wi-Fi Protected Setup from the menu. Select Off to disable WPS.
Wi-Fi/Wireless/WLAN light
Whatever your Wi-Fi light is labeled, a green light indicates that your router is broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal throughout your home so you can wirelessly connect your devices. A flickering light is fine, and it means your network is active.
'Turning off your Wi-Fi can reduce energy consumption, minimize security risks, and reduce interference with other networks. ' But it may be more convenient to leave it on if you frequently use it, or have devices that connect to it automatically.
Router-side issues could be anything from outdated hardware to buggy firmware or old infrastructure, damaged cables, spotty signal strength, and too many people connected at the same time to the network. Even though it's rare, it's also a good idea to check to make sure there is no malware on your router.
Press the WPS button on the router to establish a connection. Depending on the router and the home configuration, it may take a few minutes to connect. NOTES: Most routers have a light that flashes while the connection is established. Once a successful connection is made, select OK.
With the Router powered on, press and hold the WPS/RESET button (more than 10 seconds) until the SYS LED becomes quick-flash from slow-flash. Then release the button and wait the Router to reboot to its factory default settings.
Try rebooting your modem. A red online light can mean the modem can't authenticate username and password. A blue light usually means services are attempting to connect to the network. Allow up to 10 minutes for services to connect.
Change your password
How can you stop neighbors from using your wireless internet? If you notice a device connected to your network that you don't recognize, change your password immediately. This way, that device will be disconnected from the network and will be asked to enter the new password.
Wireless networks with WPS enabled are highly vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. Attackers can easily target the WPS function to steal network passwords, regardless of how complex the password is.
Below are the disadvantages: Devices connected directly, bypassing the access point, are not supported. It will not support any ad hoc. It supports WPS certified and WPS compatible devices.
Despite the fact that WPS is embedded in most Wi-Fi equipment, the benefit of this standard is still a controversial issue. Some professionals opt for using it as it makes the connection to the router easier and quicker while others opt against it as WPS mitigates the security of the connection process.
Compared to WPA, WPA 2, and WPA 3 Wi-Fi passwords, WPS PINs are far more susceptible to brute force attacks because they do not contain any letters, special characters, or formatting and cannot be longer than eight digits.