The WiFi Alliance has updated its WiFi Protected Setup certification program to include tap-to-connect functionality via NFC. The first products to support the NFC option are available now from Broadcom, Marvell, Mediatek and Qualcomm.

Tap-to-connect is designed to enable simple set up of security-protected WiFi devices and networks "even on devices without a user interface", the alliance explains. Six products, which will form the test suite for the new certification program, are available today:

Broadcom: Dual-Band 802.11ac Access PointBroadcom: Google Nexus 10Marvell: Marvell Avastar 88W8787 SoCMediatek: Mediatek NFConnected APMediatek: Mediatek NFConnected STAQualcomm: Dual-Band XSPAN 2-stream 802.11n WLAN Adapter

"Since 2007, WiFi Protected Setup has been the industry standard solution for users to easily connect and protect WiFi devices," the alliance says. "The new 'tap-to-connect' capability enabled by NFC extends the reach of WiFi Protected Setup to devices lacking the rich user interface found in computing devices.

"Now, a range of devices, from cameras and gaming devices to smart home devices such as refrigerators, thermostats, and security systems will be able to be connected with a simple tap via NFC."

"WiFi Protected Setup now offers users three easy setup methods — personal identification number, push-button configuration, and NFC," it adds. "With the NFC method, the user connects two or more NFC-enabled products by tapping them together. WiFi Protected Setup then automatically configures the network name and activates WPA2 security. The NFC connection method can be used to set up both traditional networks with an access point as well as WiFi Direct groups."