What to Know About Connecting to a Hidden Network GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Internet, Networking, & Security > Home Networking

What to Know About Connecting to a Hidden Network

Why they exist and whether they're safe

By Jennifer Allen Jennifer Allen Writer Swansea University, Staffordshire University Jennifer Allen has been writing about technology since 2010. Her work has appeared in Mashable, TechRadar, and many more publications. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on February 7, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Home Networking Wi-Fi & Wireless The Wireless Connection Routers & Firewalls Network Hubs ISP Broadband Ethernet Installing & Upgrading A hidden network is a wireless network configured not to broadcast its network name (SSID). That means it's effectively hidden unless you know where to look, as it won't show up alongside other networks.

What Is a Hidden Network Used For

In the past, users frequently created hidden networks to add an extra layer of security because no one could see they existed. In reality, it doesn't add much protection, and most users should have secure passwords in place instead.
However, a hidden network can still be used for various purposes. These can be to keep a network list tidy such as in a busy apartment building where you don't wish to advertise a network you only use for a couple of your own devices.
Similarly, in a work environment, it can be helpful to have a guest network on display for visitors while hiding a network used for employees.

What Does It Mean When There Is a Hidden Network

A hidden network doesn't operate any differently from a regular network. The only difference is it isn't broadcasting its network name to anyone browsing for a network. However, there is software available that can show hidden networks. Revealing a hidden network doesn't mean you can (or should) connect it to since you'd still need the password to connect.
A hidden network is no more or less safe to connect to than a regular network. What's important is knowing who owns and controls the network.

Why Is There a Hidden Network on My Wi-Fi

Unless you have set your Wi-Fi router to be hidden, your Wi-Fi networking equipment won't broadcast any hidden networks you come across via apps or elsewhere.
Instead, you can view the networks near to your location so you can choose to connect to them. A hidden network is only visible if you use a dedicated app such as iStumbler to view all available networks near your location.
If you come across one, it won't interfere with your connection unless you try to join it.

Should You Connect to Hidden Networks

Technically, there's no harm in connecting to hidden networks providing, of course, you know the origins of the network. If you've set up the hidden network yourself, it's safe to use. For unknown ones, you should know more about it.
Connecting to a hidden network is slightly different from joining a regular one, as it's hidden. You need to know the network name, security type, and security key information. These will be provided to you by the network administrator.
It's pretty simple to connect to a hidden network in Windows.

How to Connect to a Hidden Network on a Mac

Click the Apple icon on the top left corner of the desktop. Click System Preferences. Click Network. Click the Network Name drop-down menu. Click Join Other Network. Enter the details for the network. Make sure Remember this network is ticked so you don't have to re-enter the details at a later date. Click Join. FAQ How do I connect to a hidden network in Windows? If you’re using Windows, the most straightforward way to connect to a hidden network is via Windows Settings. From Settings, select Network & Internet and make sure you’re on the Wi-Fi tab. Select Manage Known Networks > Add network. Consult your IT team or admin to obtain the network name, security type, and security key information. Enter this information in the Add network screen and select Save. You’ll be connected to the hidden network. How do I remove a hidden network? If you don’t want a hidden network on your Wi-Fi network, find your router’s administrative panel and log in. Depending on your router, you’ll see an option for Wi-Fi Settings or something similar. Look for a Hidden Networks option. Once you find this option, you’ll be able to disable hidden networks. Restart your router to complete the process. How can I hide a Wi-Fi network? You'll need to disable a network's SSID to hide the network. To do this, you'll need to find your router's specific instructions. The process will likely include logging into your router's administrative panel and locating an option called SSID Broadcast. Your router's instructions will guide you on disabling the SSID broadcast and hiding your Wi-Fi network. If you have a Linksys router, consult the Linksys website, and if you have a Netgear router, head to that website. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire What Is a Hidden Network? How to Connect a Router to the Internet How to Connect to a Hidden Network Share an Internet Connection in Windows Fixing an iPad That Won't Connect to Wi-Fi Connecting a PC to a Wireless Home Network What to Do When Windows 11 Can't Connect to a Network How to Connect a Chromebook to Wi-Fi How to Reset Network Settings on Your iPhone How to Block a Wi-Fi Network How to Connect Chromecast to Hotel Wi-Fi How to Fix It When PS4 Won't Connect to Wi-Fi How to Fix Wi-Fi Connection Drops How to Share Your Internet Connection on Windows Vista Can't Connect to the Internet? Try These 10 Tips How to Change the Network on Your Chromecast & Connect to New Wi-Fi Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies