Overview
Hiding your Wi-Fi SSID (network name) means it won't appear in the list of available networks on nearby devices. Many people believe this improves security. In reality, it provides only minimal protection.
Does Hiding SSID Improve Security?
Hiding your SSID is a form of 'security through obscurity'. While it removes your network from visible lists, anyone using basic Wi-Fi scanning tools can still detect it â even hidden networks broadcast their presence.
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A strong WPA2/WPA3 password is 1000Ã more effective than hiding your SSID. Focus on password strength, not visibility.
Downsides of Hiding Your SSID
- Your devices must manually remember the hidden network â sometimes causes reconnection issues
- Guests cannot easily connect without you manually entering credentials on their device
- Some IoT devices and smart home gadgets have trouble connecting to hidden networks
- Provides virtually no security benefit against determined attackers
How to Hide Your SSID (If You Still Want To)
- 1Log in to your router at 192.168.1.1 (or 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.254, 192.168.0.254, 192.168.88.1, routerlogin.net, or netic.cc).
- 2Go to Wireless Settings.
- 3Look for a checkbox labeled Hide SSID, Broadcast SSID (uncheck), or Enable SSID Broadcast (uncheck).
- 4Save and apply. Your network will disappear from the visible list.
- 5To reconnect devices: go to Wi-Fi settings â Add Network â enter the exact name and password manually.
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