TL;DR
Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) is the latest Wi-Fi security protocol from the Wi-Fi Alliance, released around 2018 as an upgrade to Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2). It introduces stronger authentication via Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE), more robust Galois/Counter Mode Protocol 256 (GCMP-256) encryption, and limits on brute-force password attacks. However, WPA3 is not without flaws — early vulnerabilities were discovered post-launch, device compatibility can be limited, and upgrading infrastructure carries real costs. While WPA3 offers meaningful security improvements, users should still rely on complementary tools like a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive work.
What is WPA3 and should you upgrade?
Are you using Wi-Fi to read this article? Your router follows a set of protocols dictating connections, speed, and more. A Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) router could offer more security than older protocols, but it comes with trade-offs worth understanding before you upgrade.
| Feature | Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) | Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) |
|---|---|---|
| Year Introduced | 2004 | ~2018 |
| Authentication Method | Pre-shared key | Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE) |
| Encryption Standard | 128-bit encryption | GCMP-256 encryption |
| Brute-Force Attack Resistance | Vulnerable to brute-force attacks | Limited to one offline password guess |
| Ongoing Support | Supported and updated by Wi-Fi Alliance | Supported and updated by Wi-Fi Alliance |
How does WPA3 work?
The Wi-Fi Alliance released WPA3 in about 2018. The new rules build upon protocols released in WPA2, which companies have used since 2004.
The Wi-Fi Alliance exists to develop new technologies, programs, and requirements that make Wi-Fi safer and easier for everyone. The company's protocols are typically released to great fanfare, and manufacturers need a year (or two) to make their products compatible.
How do users upgrade to WPA3?
While everyday users may have no idea that WPA3 exists, they may begin to see the phrase when they're shopping. To upgrade, users will need to buy new WPA3 routers.
With a new router in hand, people must then configure their devices. Some companies, including Apple, offer straightforward support to help users connect to their new WPA3 routers without losing functionality. Even so, converting can be somewhat tricky, and it's wise for everyone to back up sensitive data before they get started.
Some people may opt to stick with old routers, and that's acceptable. The Wi-Fi Alliance plans to support and update WPA2. But the new rules come with plenty of benefits, including:
- Secure handshakes. In old WPA protocols, a device and router connected via a pre-shared key. Unfortunately, this authentication method is relatively easy for hackers to break via brute force attacks. In WPA3 encryption, devices use so-called Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE). It's much harder to eavesdrop passwords, and that could keep devices safer.
- Enhanced encryption. WPA3 protocols call for Galois/Counter Mode Protocol 256 (GCMP-256) encryption rather than 128-bit encryption used in prior versions. It's much harder for one user to snoop on someone else's traffic with this method.
- Stronger protections. A user can make one offline password guess. Brute-force attacks, in which a hacker uses hundreds of tries, aren't possible.
Given these benefits, some people may opt to upgrade routers to keep their work safer. And companies that offer Wi-Fi as a perk may upgrade their devices to keep customers and employees safer and happier.
What are the security shortcomings of WPA3?
Chances are, the old router you're using relies on WPA2 protocols. Those rules have security limitations, including a hacker's ability to guess your password. Changing to the new system may help, but it won't provide perfect protection.
WPA3 shortcomings include:
- Ongoing security risks. Shortly after WPA3 was released, researchers discovered a flaw that exposed network passwords. More coding problems may lurk within the new protocol.
- Poor support. Even if you buy WPA3 routers, you may not be able to connect unless your devices also support the protocols. Older computers and smartphones may not.
- Enhanced cost. Companies may balk at the bills associated with new system-wide routers.
Remember that WPA3 isn't foolproof. Don't develop a false sense of security, especially if you're working with sensitive information. Proceed carefully, and lean on tried-and-true systems, such as a Virtual Private Network (VPN), when you need remote access.
If you're not sure what a VPN is and how it can protect you (especially if you also use MFA), check out our blog.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to replace all my devices to use Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3)?
Buying a new WPA3 router is only part of the upgrade. Your existing computers and smartphones also need to support WPA3 protocols to connect successfully. Older devices may lack this compatibility, which can limit the practical benefits of switching.
Is Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) completely secure?
No. Shortly after WPA3 launched, researchers identified a flaw capable of exposing network passwords. While WPA3 offers stronger protections than WPA2, it is not foolproof, and additional security measures — such as a VPN — are still recommended for sensitive work.
What makes Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) authentication stronger than WPA2?
WPA2 relies on a pre-shared key for device authentication, which is relatively easy for attackers to crack through brute-force methods. WPA3 replaces this with Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE), which makes it significantly harder to intercept passwords during the connection process.
Can I keep using my Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) router instead of upgrading?
Yes. The Wi-Fi Alliance continues to support and update WPA2, so sticking with an existing router remains a valid option. However, users should be aware of WPA2's known security limitations, particularly its vulnerability to brute-force password attacks.
Why might businesses hesitate to upgrade to Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3)?
Replacing routers across an entire organization involves significant hardware costs. Combined with potential device compatibility issues — where older endpoints may not support WPA3 — the financial and logistical burden can make large-scale upgrades a difficult decision for companies.
How does Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) limit brute-force attacks?
Unlike WPA2, WPA3 restricts attackers to a single offline password guess, making the large-scale, automated guessing attempts that define brute-force attacks effectively impossible under the new protocol.
References
Who We Are. Wi-Fi Alliance.
Recommended Settings for Wi-Fi Routers and Access Points. Apple.
Flaws in Wi-Fi's New WPA3 Protocol Can Leak a Network's Password. (April 2019). PC Magazine.
