Like other router manufacturers out there, TP-Link also packs WPS functionality into their Wi-Fi routers. It is a convenient way to connect devices to the network without entering the entire password. However, if you are new to Wi-Fi routers, you may not know how to use the WPS button TP-Link routers. In this guide, I will explain how you can find the WPS button and use it to make an easy connection.
What Is a WPS Button?
WPS stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup, and it allows you to connect Wi-Fi devices to a Wi-Fi router without a password. Instead of entering the password, WPS wants you to use either the Push-Button Configuration or enter an 8-digit PIN.
The WPS button becomes the easiest way to connect/pair two devices that have WPS support. You can turn on WPS on a device by pressing the WPS button and launching the pairing mode. Once it reaches the pairing mode, you can press the WPS button on the second device. They should pair and have a connection.
WPS is convenient when you want to connect a device that lacks a typical input source, like a number pad or keypad. For instance, let’s say that you want to set up a Wi-Fi extender alongside your TP-Link router. The Wi-Fi extender cannot enter the password. In these cases, you can use the WPS button entry easily.
You should keep in mind that WPS connections are not as secure as WPA2/WPA3 connections. So, when you use WPS connectivity, you run that risk. So, I recommend enabling WPS only when you need it and turning it back off when you have connected the device.
Where is the WPS Button on a TP-Link Router?
Locating the WPS button on a TP-Link router is easy because most TP-Link routers follow a standard design. The idea is simple:
You should look for the WPS button on the router’s I/O panel. We are talking about a panel where you plug in LAN/WAN and power ports. On most routers, this button is placed next to the Reset button, which may be called WPS or Wi-Fi.
It is a good idea to look for the WPS logo to confirm that you have found the WPS button. You need to press the WPS button for a few seconds to launch the WPS pairing mode. However, holding the device for more than 5 seconds can disable the feature as well.
Your TP-Link Wi-Fi router may have a control panel on either side as well. You must check all these parts to find the WPS button. Once you have located the button, you can consider the different ways to use WPS on your TP-Link router.
How to Use WPS on TP-Link Router?
Most TP-Link Wi-Fi routers offer three methods to use the WPS functionality to establish a connection. You can use any of these methods at your convenience.
Method #1 WPS Button
As I said, pressing and holding the WPS button is the easiest way to connect two devices using WPS. You can follow these steps to get the job done:
- Turn on WPS on your TP-Link router by logging in to the web-based dashboard
- Go to the device you want to connect and press the WPS button. If you are connecting a device like a Wi-Fi extender, you can find a WPS button on the side. However, on your Android smartphone or PC, you will find a software WPS button.
- After a second of pressing the WPS button, you can press the WPS button on the TP-Link Wi-Fi router.
Remember that the WPS pairing mode on your TP-Link router will turn off within two minutes. It means you have to set things up within two minutes.
Method #2 PIN Method
The personal Identification Number (PIN) method is another method to use WPS on the TP-Link router. This method wants you to enter an 8-digit number instead of pressing a button or entering the full password.
I should highlight that this method is relatively unsafe. As history has proven, the PIN entry method for WPS is prone to brute force attacks where attackers try multiple combinations within a short period. This means that an 8-digit PIN could be cracked in a few minutes.
As a result, many devices don’t support the PIN method for WPS connections.
Method #3 WPS Wizard
Some TP-Link router models also offer a feature called WPS Wizard. This feature guides you through the core connection process, and you can choose the Push Button method or PIN method.
Once you have turned on WPS, you can access this module from Settings. You can then enter the client’s PIN or press the button to configure.
Note: WPS does not work on Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. However, you can use WPS with Android and some Windows devices.
Conclusion
As long as you stick to the Push Button Configuration (PBC) method, WPS is a convenient and somewhat safe way to connect devices to Wi-Fi. However, using the PIN method (even if TP-Link allows you to) is not a good idea at all.
