Wolves grabbed their first win of the season thanks to a first-half goal from Kenny Miller.
The transfer-listed Scottish striker continued his prolific opening to the campaign with his seventh goal in eight games in the 22nd minute.
Miller rose above Brighton defender Kerry Mayo at the far post to score with a neatly placed header from a cross by Seyi Olofinjana.
Mark McGhee's improving side - unbeaten in their previous three matches - started well and almost went in front early on when Dean Hammond headed straight at Keeper Paul Jones from a cross by the impressive Darren Currie.
Currie, signed from Wycombe in the summer on a free transfer, had a shot blocked for a corner by Joleon Lescott later in the first half and provided another cross which Hammond met with a header blocked on the line by Wolves defender Jody Craddock.
Miller looked sharp up front throughout the game and volleyed just wide when strike partner Carl Cort misdirected a header into his path. He also had appeals for a penalty turned down when Brighton captain Danny Cullip tugged at his shirt.
Brighton continued to press in search of an equaliser in the second half.
Defender turned centre forward Adam Virgo almost scored his third goal in as many games with a shot just over on the turn from 20 yards.
Substitute Chris McPhee and Currie were also just too high with a header and free-kick respectively.
Wolves wasted a couple of chances to calm their nerves in the closing stages as Cort headed wide from a cross by Mark Clyde and Miller shot so wildly that the ball went out for a throw in.