You set up your SensorPush G1 WiFi Gateway, but it never comes online. Or it worked before and stopped connecting after a router change, firmware update or new router. Setup may report that it couldn't join the network, even when the password is correct. Here's how to check your router's PMF (802.11w) setting.
Why This Happens
Many newer routers have a security feature called Protected Management Frames (PMF). You may also see it called 802.11w. When the router sets PMF to Required, it only accepts devices that support PMF. The G1 doesn't support it, so the router turns it away.
The G1 also doesn't support WPA3-only networks. It works with WPA2-Personal (and WPA/WPA2), and with WPA2/WPA3 mixed ("transition") mode as long as PMF isn't set to Required. This is a limitation of the G1's WiFi hardware, so an app or firmware update can't fix it.
How to Fix It
- Log in to your router's settings, either in its app or its web page.
- Find the WiFi security settings for the network the G1 uses.
- Look for a setting named PMF, 802.11w, Protected Management Frames or Management Frame Protection (MFP). Set it to Optional (sometimes "Capable") or Disabled. Don't use Required.
- Make sure the security mode is WPA2-Personal or WPA2/WPA3 mixed (transition), not WPA3-only / "WPA3 Personal". On some routers, choosing WPA3-only switches PMF to Required automatically.
- Save, let the router apply the change, then set up the G1 again in the SensorPush app.
Where to Find the Setting
Menu names differ between router brands and firmware versions, so treat these as starting points:
- UniFi: a PMF option (Optional / Required), usually in the WiFi network's advanced security settings.
- Other routers: usually in the wireless security or advanced wireless settings, under one of the names in step 3.
- Mesh systems with a simplified app: the option may be hidden or missing. Check your router's documentation or ask its maker how to allow WPA2 devices.
If your router doesn't let you change PMF on your main network, a separate guest or IoT network set to WPA2 with PMF Optional often works.
Want to Use WPA3?
The newer SensorPush G2 gateway supports WPA3 and works with PMF set to Required.
Still Not Connecting?
If the Gateway still won't connect, contact us at support@sensorpush.com and we'll be happy to help. Include your router brand and model, and the security mode and PMF setting you're using.