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How to Disable WPS on Your Router to Improve Security
Router & WiFiIntermediate5-10 minutes

How to Disable WPS on Your Router to Improve Security

Difficulty
Intermediate
Time
5-10 minutes
Category
Router & WiFi

WPS makes connecting devices easy but creates a major security vulnerability - here's how to turn it off and protect your network.

💡What's Happening

You've read that WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a security risk and should be disabled, but you're not sure what it is or how to turn it off. WPS is that button on your router that lets you connect devices by just pressing the button instead of entering a password. It sounds convenient, but it has a serious security flaw that makes your network vulnerable to brute-force attacks. The good news is that disabling it is simple and won't affect your day-to-day use.

✓Quick Checks (Do These First)

  • Look for a WPS button on your router. It might be labeled "WPS" or have a symbol that looks like two arrows forming a circle.
  • Check if you've ever used WPS. If you always type in your Wi-Fi password to connect devices, you're not using it.
  • Check your router model. Some cheaper or older routers can't fully disable WPS even when the setting says it's off.
  • See if WPS is enabled in your router settings. Log in and check under Wireless or Security settings.

Why WPS Is a Security Risk

WPS uses an 8-digit PIN to connect devices. The problem is that due to the way it's designed, attackers only need to guess the first 4 digits, then the last 3 (the 8th digit is a checksum). That means there are only about 11,000 possible combinations instead of 100 million. A determined attacker with the right tools can crack this in a few hours, giving them full access to your network even if you have a strong Wi-Fi password.

🔧Step-by-Step Fixes

Fix 1: Disable WPS in Router Settings

  1. Open a web browser and navigate to your router's admin page (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
  2. Log in with your admin username and password
  3. Look for the Wireless, Wi-Fi Settings, or Advanced Wireless section
  4. Find the WPS or Wi-Fi Protected Setup option
  5. Disable WPS completely - there may be separate options for "WPS Button" and "WPS PIN"
  6. Turn off both if available
  7. Save or Apply the changes
  8. Reboot your router if prompted

Fix 2: Disable WPS PIN Separately (If Available)

  1. Some routers separate the physical WPS button from the PIN method
  2. In router settings, look for "WPS PIN" or "PIN Method"
  3. Make sure this is disabled even if you leave the button enabled
  4. The PIN method is the vulnerable part - the button itself is less risky
  5. Save your changes

Fix 3: Verify WPS Is Actually Disabled

  1. After disabling WPS, check your router's status or device info page
  2. Some routers show whether WPS is active in the wireless status section
  3. You can also test by trying to connect a device using WPS - it should fail
  4. On a phone or tablet, look for "WPS" or "Connect via WPS" in Wi-Fi settings and try it
  5. If it doesn't work, WPS is successfully disabled

Fix 4: Update Router Firmware

  1. While you're in router settings, check for firmware updates
  2. Find "Firmware Update," "System Update," or "Router Update"
  3. Install any available updates
  4. Some firmware updates include better WPS controls or fix bugs where WPS stays active
  5. Reboot after updating

What to Do Instead of WPS

Without WPS, you'll need to connect devices the traditional way by entering your Wi-Fi password. Here's how to make this easier:

  • Use a strong but manageable password. Consider a passphrase of 4-5 random words instead of random characters
  • Save your password in your phone. Use your phone's notes app or password manager
  • Create a QR code for your Wi-Fi. Use a free Wi-Fi QR code generator online - guests can scan it to connect
  • Set up a guest network. Give visitors access to internet without your main password
  • Write it down and keep it secure. A physical copy in a drawer is fine for home use

If WPS Won't Disable

Some budget routers have a known issue where WPS remains active even when disabled in settings. If you've disabled it but can still connect via WPS, check online forums for your specific router model. You may need to flash custom firmware (advanced) or, if security is a priority, replace the router with a model that properly implements WPS disabling.

📞When to Call a Pro

If you're concerned about network security but aren't comfortable navigating router settings, or if you've disabled WPS but want a complete security audit of your network, professional help is a smart investment. A tech can also help you set up other security features like guest networks and MAC filtering.

Need Professional Help?

If you're in the Tampa Bay area and want expert help securing your router and network, Geeks in Sneaks provides friendly, on-site tech support in Clearwater, Clearwater Beach, and Dunedin.

Schedule a Visit

Related Topics

routerwpssecuritywifiwirelessvulnerability

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