A service set identifier (SSID) is a string of characters to identify a Wi-Fi network.
What is the SSID on your Wi-Fi?
SSID is an abbreviation for service set identifier. It’s a technical term for the name of a network. You’re looking at a list of SSIDs when you view a list of available Wi-Fi hotspots on your device. Manufacturers typically generate default SSIDs by mixing a company’s name with random digits or letters. The default SSID characters for your router may resemble something like this: netgear73, SKY02948, and so on.
Where do I find my SSID number?
The SSID of your router is usually displayed on a sticker on the bottom or side. However, if your router’s SSID has been changed, this will not assist. The vast majority of default browsers will use this format. Any good router will have WEP, WPA/WPA2, or even a WPS PIN. These are the standard protection methods for anyone connected to a router, requiring the user to enter a password to access the router’s internet. Here’s how to find the SSID on several OS systems (remember to switch on your Wi-Fi):
How to find an SSID on Windows
Locate the Wi-Fi icon in the lower right corner of your screen. It is a dot with three lines.
To view your network’s SSID, click the Wi-Fi icon. Other networks’ SSIDs in your vicinity will also be displayed.
How to find an SSID on Android
On your Android device, open the Settings app. Select Connections. Under “Wi-Fi,” you’ll find your network’s SSID.
Tap your network’s SSID to see the SSIDs of other networks in the vicinity.
How to find an SSID on MacOS
Look for the Wi-Fi icon in the upper right corner of your screen. Click the Wi-Fi icon to get a list of available networks and their SSIDs.
A blue Wi-Fi symbol will denote your network’s SSID, while the other network names will be gray.
How to find an SSID on iOS
Finding your SSID on an iPhone or iPad is a simple procedure. Navigate to Wi-Fi in Settings. You’ll notice a checkmark next to your SSID here.
Is SSID the same as an IP address?
“SSID” does not refer to an Internet Protocol (IP) address. While both are used to identify network devices, they perform different functions.
An SSID identifies a wireless network, and endpoints on a wireless network must use a single SSID to communicate.
How do I change the SSID on my router?
Hackers frequently target Wi-Fi networks with default SSIDs because they believe the owners have not taken the necessary security procedures to protect their home networks. They can use password-cracking programs that explicitly target default and regularly used Wi-Fi SSIDs, allowing them to access your wireless network and possibly steal sensitive data quickly.
If you’re ready to make a change to protect your data, here’s how:
- Open your browser on your computer or mobile device.
- Log in to the Admin interface of your home router. Each router brand may have a different login procedure, so consult your Router Manual for more information. Typically, you can get to it via http://192.168.1.1.
- Enter the Router IP address from the previous step into the address box and press Enter.
- Look for the Wireless menu option.
- Change the default SSID name in the Wireless Network Name (SSID) field.
- To confirm your changes, click Save or Apply. You may need to restart your router for the changes to take effect.
- Reconnect all wireless devices to the new Wi-Fi SSID.
