WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Tobo · ‎26.04.2024

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Definition

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance for easily setting up a wireless local network with encryption, which has been available since 2007.

The aim of WPS is to simplify the addition of devices to an existing network.

How it works

In order to achieve this goal, four different models have been developed to minimise the need for user settings:
PIN entry: The device has a sticker or display for a PIN, which must be made known to the registrar (e. g. the access point) in order to be integrated into a network. Alternatively, a PIN must be read from the registrar and entered on the client side.

Push Button Configuration (PBC, English for configuration at the touch of a button): The access point and the devices to be integrated into the network have a physical or software-implemented button for establishing a connection. implemented by software to establish a connection. When this is pressed, a two-minute phase begins in which such devices can join the network.

USB Flash Drive (UFD): A USB stick is used to transport the network settings data between the access point and the devices to be integrated.

Near Field Communication (NFC): The device to be integrated is brought close to the access point in order to exchange the relevant data using Near Field Communication.
In order to receive WPS certification from the Wi-Fi Alliance, an access point must support at least the first two methods. Wireless devices that act as a client only need to support the first method. only need to support the first method.