SSID stands for Service Set Identifier and is the name assigned to a wireless network. It is a human-readable label that can include letters, numbers, and characters, making it easy to identify a network.
Understanding SSID
A common example of an SSID is the name of a WiFi network that appears when you turn on WiFi on your smartphone or laptop. Each network has a unique SSID that identifies it to devices that want to connect. The SSID is essential for distinguishing one network from another.
Editable SSIDs
Network administrators or the host of a network can manually change the SSID. By default, most devices use the model name of the router or device as the SSID. Experts recommend changing the default SSID for better security and easier identification.
Connecting to an SSID
When you turn on WiFi, your device detects all available SSIDs within range. To connect, you may need to enter a password if the network is secured. SSIDs are case-sensitive, so capitalization matters when connecting to a network.
Advanced SSID Features
A wireless network can have multiple SSIDs representing the same network for different purposes. For added security, administrators can also hide the SSID, making the network invisible to devices scanning for available WiFi.
In summary, an SSID is the identity of a WiFi network. It helps users recognize and connect to the network while giving network administrators control over visibility and security.