Tech Tips: Changing your WiFi password isn't enough; to stay safe, it's essential to disable this setting..

Is the WiFi WPS Feature Useful or Not? Most people think that a strong password is enough to keep their Wi-Fi secure. While a password is necessary, it doesn't provide complete security. Your router has several other settings that affect security. One of these is Wi-Fi Protected Setup, or WPS. This feature is enabled by default on many routers and can render even your strong password useless. If an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they can easily gain access to your network. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what WPS is and why you should disable it.

What is WPS and how does it work?
WPS is a feature that makes it easier to connect new devices to Wi-Fi. Typing a password is often cumbersome, especially on devices like printers, smart TVs, or sensors. With WPS, you simply press a button on the router, and the device connects in a few seconds. It can also be connected using an 8-digit PIN. This method seems very convenient because you don't have to type a long password repeatedly. However, this convenience comes at the cost of security. While this method was considered good a few years ago, it is now becoming a security risk.

What is the biggest problem with WPS?
The biggest problem with WPS is that it completely bypasses the need for a password. The PIN method is the weakest. The 8-digit PIN is checked in two parts, allowing an attacker to crack it quickly. Once the PIN is cracked, the attacker gains access to your entire Wi-Fi password, no matter how strong it is. Many routers don't lock out after incorrect attempts, making the attack even easier. The button method is slightly better, but if someone has physical access to the router, they can still connect. Even in 2025, many routers still have technical vulnerabilities, such as the Pixie Dust attack, which can crack the PIN in seconds.

A strong password doesn't protect against WPS.
People think that if their password is long and complex, their network is secure. But this is not the case when WPS is enabled. This feature operates outside the protection provided by your password. The attacker doesn't attack the password itself, but rather exploits WPS. Even the latest security protocols like WPA3 can't prevent this. WPS is an old feature that allows the router to trust a connection without requiring a password. Therefore, no matter how strong your password is, WPS renders it useless. Many experts say that the best approach is to disable WPS entirely. Safer methods for connecting devices are available today.

What changes have been made in the new routers?
Many router manufacturers are now aware of the WPS vulnerability. Many new routers have WPS disabled by default or lack the button altogether. The PIN-based method has been removed from many models. Some routers released in 2025 don't even include this feature. Companies are either hiding it or removing it completely. However, older or cheaper routers may still have it enabled. Therefore, when buying a new router, check that there is an option to disable WPS. Never enable it unless necessary.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Navbharat Times. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.