Wi-Fi protected access pre-shared key definition
Wi-Fi protected access pre-shared key (WPA-PSK) refers to a mode of Wi-Fi security which is commonly used in home networks and small businesses without enterprise-level equipment. It's designed to provide more robust security than WEP, the original Wi-Fi protection protocol.
'Pre-shared key' means that a passphrase, or shared key, is set up in advance and is required to connect to the wireless network.
See also: wep crack, wpa key, wan
Types of Wi-Fi security protocols:
- WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). The oldest and least secure protocol introduced in 1997 as part of the original 802.11 wireless standard.
- WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access). It was introduced as an interim solution after the WEP vulnerabilities were discovered but still had significant flaws.
- WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2). It’s a popular security protocol that replaced WPA. It introduced the AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) protocol and includes WPA2-PSK, which uses a single pre-shared key for all devices, and WPA2-Enterprise, which uses a RADIUS server to authenticate each user individually.
- WPA3. Introduced in 2018, it’s the most secure protocol with several improvements over WPA2.
Wi-Fi protected access pre-shared key use cases
- Home networks. WPA-PSK is a common choice for home Wi-Fi networks because it provides a balance between security and simplicity.
- Small businesses. Smaller businesses that do not have the infrastructure for more complex systems use WPA-PSK as they can provide the passphrase to employees without the need for individual user accounts or an authentication server.
- Public Wi-Fi hotspots. Various public venues might use WPA-PSK, providing a password to patrons upon request.
FAQs
Wi-Fi protected access pre-shared key (WPA-PSK) refers to a mode of Wi-Fi security which is commonly used in home networks and small businesses without enterprise-level equipment. It's designed to provide more robust security than WEP, the original Wi-Fi protection protocol.
What is the pre-shared key in a Wi-Fi router? ›
A pre-shared key (PSK) is a super-long series of seemingly random letters and numbers generated when a device joins a network through a Wi-Fi access point (AP). The process begins when a user logs into the network using the SSID (name of the network) and password (sometimes called a passphrase).
What is the meaning of WPA WPA2 pre-shared key? ›
WPA2-PSK stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 – Pre-Shared Key. It is a security protocol used to secure wireless networks, particularly home and small office networks. WPA2-PSK was introduced as an upgrade to the original WPA standard, which proved to have vulnerabilities.
Is Preshared key the Wi-Fi password? ›
The WEP key or WPA/WPA2 preshared key/passphrase is not the same as the password for the access point. The password lets you access the access point settings. The WEP key or WPA/WPA2 preshared key/passphrase allows printers and computers to join your wireless network.
What is a WIFI protected access pre-shared key? ›
Wi-Fi protected access pre-shared key (WPA-PSK) refers to a mode of Wi-Fi security which is commonly used in home networks and small businesses without enterprise-level equipment. It's designed to provide more robust security than WEP, the original Wi-Fi protection protocol.
How do I find the PSK on my router? ›
Go to the Wireless or Wireless Settings menu, then click on Security. Select WPA2-PSK from the encryption options. If unavailable, update your router's firmware as needed. Create a strong password with a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols, ensuring it is at least eight characters long.
How does pre-shared key work? ›
As its name suggests, the pre-shared key has to be distributed beforehand to all devices that use it. Pre-shared keys must be transferred confidentially, since their security benefit is immediately lost if the key is exposed to unauthorized parties. The pre-shared keys must also be long and random to be secure.
Is the WPA key the same as the Wi-Fi password? ›
A WPA key is a password that you use to connect to a wireless network. You can get the WPA password from whoever runs the network. In some cases, a default WPA passphrase or password may be printed on a wireless router. If you can't determine the password on your router, you may be able to reset it.
Why is my Wi-Fi asking for a WPA2 password? ›
A WPA2 password is a passphrase that secures your home Wi-Fi network from intruders who want to hack into your system. It safeguards your network so you and your family can safely access the internet.
What is secret in VPN settings? ›
The Pre-Shared Key (sometimes called shared secret) is basically a form of password for your VPN gateway which is set up on your device.
In Network and Sharing Center, next to Connections, select your Wi-Fi network name. In Wi-Fi Status, select Wireless Properties. In Wireless Network Properties, select the Security tab, then select the Show characters check box. Your Wi-Fi network password is displayed in the Network security key box.
How do I find my network security key for my Wi-Fi? ›
The network security key — the password that allows you to create a secure Wi-Fi connection — should always be printed on the side of your router. Some manufacturers may use a different name for it, such as: Password. Network key.
What is the difference between pre shared key and password? ›
A pre-shared key is basically just a shared secret or password that is used to authenticate an individual attempting to join a wireless network (no username or identification or than the key is required).
What is the default password for Wi-Fi login? ›
admin/admin is the most common router login and router password for 192.168 0.1, but that depends on the type of router. Other popular login credential combinations are admin/Admin, admin/password, and admin/1234. You can check the list of common router logins if none of those combinations work.
What is my connected Wi-Fi password show? ›
Click on the Wifi network you are connected to. Select "Wireless Properties" and go to the "Security" tab. Check the box that says "Show characters" to reveal the Wifi password.
What does a pre-shared key do? ›
Definitions: A secret key that has been established between the parties who are authorized to use it by means of some secure method (e.g., using a secure manual-distribution process or automated key-establishment scheme).
What is the key on a wireless router? ›
The network security key — the password that allows you to create a secure Wi-Fi connection — should always be printed on the side of your router. Some manufacturers may use a different name for it, such as: Password. Network key.
How to check pre-shared key? ›
Check the Keychain (Applications > Utilities > Keychain Access). The Pre-Shared Key is usually saved here. Enter "Shared Secret" into the search bar to view a list of all your saved PSKs.
