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Home / Glossary / WPS
Glossary · Networking

WPS

Wi-Fi Protected Setup

In plain language

A shortcut for joining Wi-Fi by pressing a button or typing a short number instead of the full password.

The metaphor

Like leaving a spare key under the doormat for convenience: handy for guests and just as handy for anyone who finds it.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Push-button or PIN modes connect a device without typing the password.
  • The PIN mode has a weakness that lets attackers guess it.
  • Most security advice is to turn it off.
  • Printers sometimes ask for it during setup.

How WILDCARD handles it

Network covers the access points where this setting is switched off.

In practice
  • An office turns WPS off on the new access points.
  • A printer install guide says to press the WPS button; the admin uses the password instead.
  • A security scan flags a router with WPS enabled.

A question owners ask

Should I leave WPS on?

Turn it off. Typing the password once is quick enough and safer.

Where WILDCARD handles this
Network
  • Firewall managed and monitored
  • Switches kept current
  • On-prem Active Directory auth
Start with Network
Related terms
ACLAccess Control ListAHAuthentication HeaderAPAccess PointARPAddress Resolution ProtocolBPDUBridge Protocol Data UnitCCMPCounter Mode/CBC-MAC ProtocolCCTVClosed-circuit TelevisionCHAPChallenge Handshake Authentication Protocol

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