The router in our homes serves as the gateway to the Internet, making it a crucial element to safeguard our security. Neglecting proper configuration, failing to keep it updated, and other oversights can leave us vulnerable to unwelcome intrusions into our home network. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to bolster our security. Today, we’re going to highlight one of the essential functions that should always be deactivated.
In the modern world, ensuring the security of your home network is paramount. Without careful consideration, your Internet connection could be breached, potentially causing significant issues. Therefore, it’s imperative to have a fundamental understanding of how to configure your home router correctly. Alongside that, adhering to basic safety measures, such as the one we’ll discuss below, is equally important.
The WPS Button on Your Router: A Potential Headache
Most of us have encountered the various buttons and LED status indicators on our routers. Among these buttons, you’ll find one labeled with the letters “WPS,” a feature designed to simplify WiFi connections without the need for password entry. However, it’s been well-established that WPS poses a significant security risk, and it’s advisable to keep it disabled at all times.
WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) is a system that allows for easy WiFi connections by pressing the WPS button on the router and the corresponding device. In this scenario, you don’t need to input the wireless network password. However, the major problem, as mentioned earlier, is that this system can also rely on a PIN number for authentication. In this case, if an attacker attempts a brute-force attack, there are 11,000 possible combinations, potentially allowing them access in as little as two days.
While some manufacturers have implemented safeguards by limiting the number of PIN entry attempts for WPS, not all routers offer this added protection. Consequently, it’s advisable to disable the WPS option on your router to enhance your network security.
Disabling WPS on Your Router Permanently
Although router models may vary, disabling the WPS function is a relatively consistent process across most models. Typically, there are no complicated steps, except for a few exceptions. Here’s a general guide on how to do it:
- Access the device configuration by entering its default address, usually “192.168.1.1.”
- Enter the username and password to gain access; these credentials are typically found on a label attached to the router.
- Navigate to the WiFi or wireless connection section within the configuration.
- Locate the WPS function and deactivate it.
For AVM Fritz routers, the manufacturer provides the following steps:
- Open the FRITZ!Box user interface.
- Click on WiFi.
- Access the Security option.
- Open the WPS Quick Connect tab.
- Disable the “Active WPS Push Button Method” option.
- Save the changes to the configuration by clicking “Apply.”
For Asus routers, follow these steps:
- Access the ASUS configuration interface.
- In the side menu, go to Advanced Settings, then click on Wireless.
- Find the WPS tab.
- Set the “Enable WPS” option to “OFF.”
To further enhance security, especially if there’s a concern that someone may have accessed the home network, it’s advisable to change the WiFi password on your device. This ensures that unauthorized access, particularly through WPS, is no longer an option.