What is WPS (Push Button) and how to use it to connect a TV, Blu-ray Disc player or other Internet capable device to a Network wirelessly (Wi-Fi) (2024)

FAQs

What is the WPS push button for? ›

WPS stands for WiFi Protected Setup. A router with a WPS button can allow any device to automatically connect to your router when the WPS button is pressed. When you press the WPS button, your router looks for compatible devices right away and allows those devices automatically connect.

The WPS button simplifies the connection process

Press the WPS button on your router to turn on the discovery of new devices. Then, go to your device and select the network you want to connect to. The device is automatically connected to the wireless network without having to enter the network password.

NOTE: The button is usually located on the front or rear of the router labeled WPS. Refer to the manufacture of the router for the specific location.

The WPS does not handle the connection of Wifi but it handles the data sending between the client device(s) and the router. The WPS is a password-protected wireless network that supports the WPA (Wifi Protected Access Personal) or WPA2 (Wifi Protected Access2 Personal) security protocols.

WPS works by allow us to join a wi-fi network without needing to know the network password. You simply push the WPS button on the router, join the network and you're in. Unfortunately, WPS is horribly insecure and can be used as a means for attackers to gain access to your network.

For example, on their popular TP-Link Archer AX20, the WPS button is also on the back of the router, but it has two functions: a short 1-second press on the button activates WPS, while a long press (two seconds or more) turns on and off the Wi-Fi.

Note: You will need to press and hold the WPS button on the wireless router for about 2-3 seconds. After a short period of time, your device and the wireless router will be connected.

Push the WPS button on the router.

In the device's WiFi settings, locate and select the name of the wireless network (SSID) you're trying to connect to. It should complete the connection without entering a password.

Why is my Samsung TV asking for WPS? ›

There are times when you search for available WiFi networks and your TV cannot find anything. You will be left with an option to use the WPS connection method. Go to the network type in your TV settings to set it up.

It's best practice to turn off WPS on your router after you've connected the devices you want. Once you're done, there's no reason to keep the button active. And this also stops strangers from using your network, who can be a threat to your cybersecurity. You really don't want to let data-stealing hackers in!

Press the WPS button on the device you wish to connect. Within 120 seconds, press the WPS button on the wireless router. Note: You will need to press and hold the WPS button on the wireless router for about 2-3 seconds. After a short period of time, your device and the wireless router will be connected.

Is the reset button the same as the WPS button? On some devices, the reset and WPS buttons are the same. If you don't see a separate reset button, you can reset your device by holding down the WPS button for 10 seconds.

Most printers with a touchscreen control panel: Open the Setup, Network, or Wireless settings menu, select Wi-Fi Protected Setup, select Push Button, and then select Start. Most printers without a touchscreen control panel: Press and hold the Wireless button for five seconds or until the wireless light starts to flash.