Wireless Access Methods

There are a variety of options at your disposal.

Choose the method based on the use/purpose of the network.

Pre-shared Key (PSK)

Most commonly used. Share a passphrase with users that wish to access the network.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)

Requires a network that has a PSK set and WPA2 configured. With the press of a button (on the router), connect to the network without entering anything. Except if your device doesn't have a WPS button. Then you have to type in the AP's unique code.

Open Network

No authentication, an open door. Simply lets anybody and everybody in.

Captive Portal

Used in open networks that force users to view and interact with a portal before granting internet access. They want you to sell your soul to Microsoft before you get access to the internet at your local YMCA.