How to Connect to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network

A hidden Wi-Fi network is one that does not appear in the general list of available connections. Its SSID (network name) is concealed from public view, requiring users to manually input the necessary details to connect. This guide will walk you through connecting to a hidden Wi-Fi network on various devices.

1. What is a Hidden Wi-Fi Network?

A hidden Wi-Fi network does not broadcast its SSID for public access. This configuration is sometimes used for additional security, though it is not a guarantee against unauthorized access. To connect to such a network, you need to know the network name, security type, and password.

2. Connecting to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network on Android

  1. Open the Settings on your device.
  2. Navigate to the Wi-Fi section.
  3. Select Add Network or Add Hidden Network (the name may vary by device).
  4. Enter the Network SSID (network name).
  5. Select the network security type (e.g., WPA/WPA2).
  6. Enter the network password and tap Connect.

3. Connecting to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network on iPhone

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Navigate to the Wi-Fi section.
  3. Tap Other.
  4. Enter the Network Name (SSID).
  5. Select the security type and enter the password.
  6. Tap Join.

4. Connecting to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network on Windows

  1. Go to the Control Panel or open Settings in Windows.
  2. Select Network & Internet.
  3. Find and select Manage Wireless Networks.
  4. Click Add and choose Create Network Profile Manually.
  5. Enter the network name (SSID) and select the security type.
  6. Enter the password and save the settings.

5. Connecting to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network on MacOS

  1. Open the System menu and choose Network Preferences.
  2. In the Wi-Fi section, select Join Other Network.
  3. Enter the Network SSID, select the security type, and enter the password.
  4. Click OK to connect.

6. Important Notes for Connecting to Hidden Networks

A hidden network can offer an additional level of protection from casual users, but it does not guarantee security. Anyone who knows the SSID and password can connect to your network. It is recommended to use a strong password and a modern encryption type like WPA3, if available.

If you experience issues connecting, ensure you have correctly entered the SSID, password, and network security type. Also, check the router settings and verify that the network is indeed hidden if the connection fails.