Need Wi-Fi access? Just reach out and touch your router

Networking devices that don’t have conventional user interfaces is one of the bigger barriers to realizing the Internet of Things.

To make that process easier, the Wi-Fi Alliance has added support for NFC (near-field communication) technology to its WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) security standard. Instead of typing characters or pushing buttons, you'll soon be able to add an NFC device to your network by simply tapping it against your router. NFC is becoming ubiquitous in cell phones and tablets, but the Wi-Fi Alliance expects NFC setup to be even more useful for adding simpler devices -- everything from thermostats to household appliances -- to networks.

"You'll see it in handsets now, but what it really enables is devices that don't have a user interface," said Kelly Davis-Felner, vice president of marketing for the Wi-Fi Alliance. Since you can’t drag your refrigerator to your router, Davis-Felner explained that you’ll tap the NFC-capable smartphone you’ve already added to your network against the fridge.