There are numerous Wi-Fi networks all around us, and their signals permeate the air. What about the safety of these networks though? Network managers have long struggled with how to best secure wireless networks. Wireless networks are generally less secure because they broadcast the data stream. However, wired networks are far safer because they necessitate a hacker’s physical presence to access the data. This piece will explain a Wi-Fi security feature known as “Hidden SSID.” Let’s find out the specifics of this trait that corporations sometimes highlight in their advertising.
What is a Hidden SSID
You’ve probably noticed that each wireless network has an associated moniker once you’ve connected to one. The name given to a wireless network is called its Service Set Identifier (SSID). Everyone who uses that network is aware of its SSID.
Joining a Covert Wireless Network on Windows 11 and 10
Every second, clients can scan the airwaves for available wireless networks by entering their SSID into a special field on their wireless adapters. However, there are networks that prefer to remain hidden from the general public. As a result, a network that does not openly announce its name is said to have a secret SSID. These networks also do not appear in the standard Wi-Fi scanning process.
This is a pretty solid safety measure, you might be thinking. But I’m here to tell you that it’s not. Numerous resources exist that facilitate the discovery of such concealed networks. In addition, hackers may become interested in your system if you choose to conceal it. There is no improvement to a Wi-Fi network’s security when Hidden Networks are enabled. In order to increase security, you need to change the password and security level.
How to Connect to A Hidden Wi-Fi Network?
So, you’ve found the information you need to join a Hidden Network. With Windows 11 or 10, joining a secret network is a breeze. Make sure you know the following about the shadow network before proceeding:
Wireless Network Name (SSID), Security Method (WMS), Security Key, and EAP Method (if using WPA2-Enterprise AES security type)
Once you’ve gathered this information, you can manually add a covert wireless network by doing the following:
- Retrieve the “Preferences” menu.
- Select “Network and Internet” to proceed.
- Choose “Wi-Fi” from the column on the left.
- Select “Known Network Management” from the menu.
- Initiate a new network connection by selecting it now.
- The SSID, security type, and password are all entered in this section.
- If you want to connect to this network automatically when it becomes accessible, click the “Connect Automatically” button.
Connecting even if this network is not broadcasting is another option. If you enable this feature, your privacy may be seriously compromised. Even if you move to a new location, Windows will continue to look for this network. This search can be intercepted by hackers and used to determine which network you are actually trying to join.
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How to find Hidden WiFi Networks
I’ve already noted that many resources exist specifically to detect secret Wi-Fi hotspots. Connecting to these networks or assessing the safety of your Wi-Fi network is easier with the aid of these instruments. The links below will take you to more in-depth discussions of some of these resources that we’ve already examined.
NetSurveyor
To locate open wireless networks in your area, you can use this free program. Once this data is processed, a report with diagnostic numbers and graphs will be shown to you. The majority of Wi-Fi adapters are supported by NetSurveyor, and if your device does not have a compatible Wi-Fi adapter, you may always use the Demo mode.
NetStumbler
Another tool that serves a similar purpose is NetStumbler, which is ideal for use on older computers because of its age. It has all the essential capabilities you’ll need, such as network discovery, to conduct a thorough audit of the local wireless networks. Since NetStumbler has not been updated in a while, it is possible that it will not identify your Wi-Fi adaptor.
Kismet
Kismet is a free and open-source IDS, sniffer, and network detector. It’s a sophisticated program that may require compilation before it can be used. Insights into compiling the tool on both Windows and Linux are included in the docs.
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How to make your wireless network hidden
Wireless networks that advertise their SSID are illegal in some countries. Your network’s SSID could be a potential target for attack, therefore you may be looking for ways to conceal it. The router and its manufacturer have a significant impact on the procedures we’ve outlined. These are the only examples that can be used as a starting point for your own research.
- Launch a web browser and go to the router’s admin page from there. An address like “http://192.168.0.1” is typical. For further information, consult the user guide that comes packaged with your router.
- Use the manual’s suggested default username and password.
- Select “SSID Broadcast” and then “Disabled” in the Wireless Settings menu.
The SSID broadcasting from your router should now be disabled.
Are Hidden Wi-Fi Networks Secure?
Is the price justified? Keeping your wireless network’s SSID a secret won’t make it any more secure. The SSID can be hidden in Wi-Fi networks, but it won’t make a difference because they are broadcast. As a counterpoint, it adds a bit of complexity to connecting to the network. It’s also not safe to use a network if your computer is continually seeking other networks.
Conclusion
Okay, I guess that’s everything you needed to know about secret Wi-Fi networks and SSIDs. You can pick up any one of the aforementioned apps and immediately begin scanning the area for available wireless networks. Alternatively, you can try out your router’s security settings by disabling public access to your Wi-Fi network. It’s fascinating to learn the science underlying these networks and how they function. Readers interested in learning more can do so by conducting an online search for the term “802.11.