Connecting to Wi-Fi via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) - one of the fastest ways to connect a Androiddevice to a router without entering a password. The method is especially convenient when a complex network password is forgotten or it is inconvenient to type it on the smartphone screen. However, not all users know how to correctly activate this function and encounter typical errors: from the absence of a WPS button in the menu to compatibility problems with new versions. Android.

In this article we will analyze all available connection methods via WPS - from the classic button press on the router to using a PIN code, and also explain why this method may not work on modern devices. You will learn how to check whether your smartphone supports WPS, what router settings you need to change for a successful connection, and the dangers of using WPS from a security point of view. At the end, there are answers to frequently asked questions and alternative connection options if WPS is not available.

What is WPS and how does it work on Android

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a standard for simplified connection of devices to a wireless network, designed to minimize manual data entry. Instead of remember and enter a long password, the user can:

  • 🔘 Press the physical WPS button on the router (method PBC — Push Button Configuration).
  • 🔢 Enter the 8-digit PIN code generated by the router or device.
  • 📱 Use NFC (if supported).

On Android the WPS function is integrated into the Wi-Fi system settings, but its availability depends on the version OS and smartphone manufacturer. For example, Android 9 and later Google has removed WPS support from the standard interface for security reasons, but some manufacturers (for example, Xiaomi, Samsung) leave it in their shells.

📊 What method of connecting to Wi-Fi do you use more often?
I enter the password manually
I press the WPS button on the router
I use a QR code
Another method

Important: WPS is vulnerable to brute force attacks due to weak PIN code protection. Attackers can pick it up in a few hours, gaining access to your network. That's why many modern routers disable WPS by default or replace it to more secure methods, for example WPA3 or connecting via QR code.

Checking WPS support on an Android smartphone

Before trying to connect via WPS, make sure that your smartphone supports this function. You can check this in two ways:

  1. Through the Wi-Fi menu:
    1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
    2. Click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner or swipe down for additional options.
    3. Look for items like WPS, Connection via WPS or Additional → WPS.
  2. Through technical specifications:

    Some manufacturers (for example, Sony or Huawei) indicate WPS support in the model specifications. Check the official website of the brand or the instructions for the device.

☑️ What to check before connecting via WPS

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If there is no WPS option in the Wi-Fi menu, this may mean:

  • 📱 Outdated version Android (up to 9.0) with a removed function.
  • 🔄 The manufacturer removed WPS from the firmware (for example, Google Pixel after 2020).
  • 🛠️ Custom firmware without WPS support.
⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 10+ even if there is a WPS button in the menu, the connection may not work due to security restrictions. In this case, use alternative methods (QR code or manually entering a password).

Step-by-step guide: connecting via the WPS button on the router

This is the most common method that works on most routers (TP-Link, ASUS, D-Link, Keenetic) and smartphones up to Android 9. Follow the algorithm:

  1. Activate WPS on the router:

    Press the physical WPS button on the router body (usually it is labeled and located next to the ports). Hold it down for 2-3 seconds until the WPS indicator starts blinking. On some models (for example, Zyxel), you need to go to the web interface of the router (192.168.1.1) and enable WPS in the section Wi-Fi → WPS.

  2. Start WPS on your smartphone:

    Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS (path may vary). Click WPS connection or WPS button. The device will begin searching for available networks.

  3. Confirm connection:

    After 30–60 seconds, the smartphone should connect to the network. If this does not happen, repeat the process or check whether WPS is disabled on the router (the indicator has stopped blinking).

Router manufacturer How to activate WPS Activity time (seconds)
TP-Link WPS button on case or web interface (Security → WPS) 120
ASUS WPS/Reset button (hold 1 sec) or Administration → WPS 180
Keenetic Button Wi-Fi/WPS on the front panel 60
D-Link WPS button on the back or Wi-Fi → WPS in the settings 90

If your smartphone does not find the network via WPS, try:

  • 🔄 Reboot the router and smartphone.
  • 📶 Move closer to the router (WPS is sensitive to signal strength).
  • 🔧 Reset the network settings on your smartphone (Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi).
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If the WPS button is on the router does not work, check if the function is disabled in the web interface. Sometimes after updating the firmware, WPS is reset to the “Off” state.

Connecting via WPS PIN code

An alternative method is to use an 8-digit PIN code, which can be found on the router sticker or generated in its settings. reliable (due to PIN vulnerabilities), but can help out if there is no physical WPS button.

Instructions:

  1. Find the WPS PIN code:
    • On the router case (usually on the bottom sticker next to the SSID).
    • In the web interface of the router (Wi-Fi → WPS → PIN code).
  • On your smartphone, select Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS → Connection via PIN.
  • Enter the 8-digit code and confirm.
    • ⚠️ Attention: The WPS PIN code can be selected in a few hours using specialized apps (for example, Reaver or Bully). If your router uses WPS with a default PIN (for example, 12345670), disable this feature immediately in the settings!

    Some routers (for example, MikroTik) allow you to generate a temporary PIN code that is valid only once. This increases security, but requires access to the web interface each time you connect.

    How to reset the WPS PIN code on the router?

    To reset the WPS PIN code to the factory one, hold down the button Reset on the router for 10-15 seconds. After that, the PIN will return to the default value (indicated on the sticker).

    Problems with WPS on Android: causes and solutions

    Even if your smartphone and router support WPS, the connection may not work. solutions:

    Problem Possible cause Solution
    The WPS button is missing in the Android menu Removed in a new version of the OS or firmware Use alternative methods (QR code, manual entry)
    The smartphone does not find the network after pressing WPS on the router The distance is too long or interference Move the smartphone closer to the router, turn off other devices on the 2.4 frequency GHz
    Error "Could not connect via WPS" Incompatibility of standards (for example, a router on WPA3, a smartphone on WPA2) Change the security type in the router settings to WPA2-PSK
    WPS is enabled, but the connection is interrupted The WPS session timed out (usually 2 minutes) Repeat the process by pressing WPS on the router again

    If none of the methods worked, check:

    • 🔧 Router settings: WPS can be disabled in the section Security or Additional.
    • 📱 Firmware updates: On some smartphones (for example, Samsung Galaxy S20+) WPS returns after updating the OS.
    • 🔄 Wi-Fi operating mode: WPS only works on frequency 2.4 GHz. If your smartphone is connected to 5 GHz, temporarily disable this network in the router settings.
    💡

    If your the router supports WPA3, disable it temporarily and switch to WPA2 - this often solves compatibility issues with WPS on older Android devices.

    Alternative methods for connecting to Wi-Fi without WPS

    If WPS is not available or does not work, use one of these methods:

    • 📷 QR code: Many modern routers (TP-Link Archer, ASUS RT-AX) generate a QR code for connection. Scan it with your smartphone camera and the system will automatically connect to the network.
    • 🔑 Manual password entry: Find the password on the router sticker or in the web interface (Wi-Fi → Security → Password).
    • 🤝 WPS via NFC: Some devices (for example, Sony Xperia or Samsung Galaxy with an NFC chip) support connection by touching the router (if it is equipped with an NFC module).
    • 📱 Manufacturer's applications: Brands like Xiaomi or Huawei offer proprietary utilities for connecting to their routers without WPS (for example, Mi Wi-Fi or Huawei HiLink).

    For devices on Android 10+ the most reliable way is using a QR code. For example, in routers Keenetic you can generate a code in the Wi-Fi → Guest network → QR codesection, and then scan it through the standard camera application on your smartphone.

    WPS security: risks and how to minimize them

    Despite the convenience, WPS is considered an insecure protocol for several reasons:

    • 🔢 Weak PIN code: The PIN verification algorithm is vulnerable to brute force attacks. An attacker can try all possible combinations in 4–10 hours.
    • 🕳️ Lack of brute force protection: Many routers do not block connection attempts after several failures.
    • 🔄 Outdated standards: WPS was developed for WPA2, but is poorly compatible with WPA3, which forces users to roll back security settings.

    To reduce risks:

    1. Disable WPS in the router settings, if you do not use it constantly.
    2. Replace the standard PIN code with a random one (if the router supports this function).
    3. Activate MAC filtering (allow connection only for known devices).
    4. Update your router firmware - some manufacturers are closing WPS vulnerabilities in new software versions.
    ⚠️ Attention: If your router is older than 2018, the likelihood of a WPS vulnerability is extremely high. Check the model on the website RouterSecurity.org or disable WPS completely by switching to connecting via a QR code or manually entering a password.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about WPS on Android

    My smartphone does not see the WPS option. What to do?

    If you Android 9 or later, most likely, WPS has been removed from the system. Try:

    • Use alternative methods (QR code, manual entry).
    • Install custom firmware with WPS support (for example, LineageOS).
    • Check the availability of proprietary utilities from the router manufacturer (for example, TP-Link Tether).
    WPS on the router is turned on, but the smartphone does not connect. What is the problem?

    The reasons may be the following:

    • The router and smartphone operate on different Wi-Fi standards (for example 802.11n vs 802.11ac) Try setting the mode in the router settings 802.11n.
    • WPS session timed out (usually 2 minutes). Repeat the process.
    • A VPN or firewall is enabled on your smartphone, blocking the connection.
    Is it possible to connect via WPS, if the button on the router is broken?

    Yes, if the router supports PIN method or web interface:

    1. Find the PIN code on the sticker router or in the settings (192.168.1.1 → Wi-Fi → WPS).
    2. Enter it into the WPS menu on your smartphone.

    If the PIN is unknown, reset the router to factory settings (button Reset).

    Is it safe to use WPS on public networks?

    Absolutely not. In public networks (hotels, cafes) WPS is often disabled due to the risk of hacking. If it is available:

    • Do not connect via WPS - use a password or QR code.
    • After connecting, disable WPS in the router settings (if you have access).
    • Do not enter personal data (logins, passwords) on a network connected via WPS.
    How to disable WPS on a router permanently?

    To completely deactivate WPS:

    1. Go to the web interface router (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
    2. Go to section Wi-Fi → WPS or Security.
    3. Select option Disable WPS or Disable.
    4. Save the settings and reboot the router.

    On some routers (for example, ASUS RT-AX88U) WPS is disabled automatically when you switch to WPA3.