How to Hide Wi-Fi Networks from the Network List in Windows

Hiding specific Wi-Fi networks can be useful if you want to avoid accidental connections to unwanted networks or enhance security. In Windows, you can achieve this with a few simple commands. Follow the steps below to hide selected networks from the list of available ones.

Method 1: Using the netsh Command

Windows allows you to control network visibility using the Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Press Win + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. To hide a network from the list, execute this command:

   netsh wlan add filter permission=block ssid="Network_Name" networktype=infrastructure

3. Replace Network_Name with the name of the network you want to hide.
4. If you wish to undo this and make the network visible again, use:

   netsh wlan delete filter permission=block ssid="Network_Name" networktype=infrastructure

These commands allow you to add a filter to block certain networks, effectively hiding them from the list of visible networks.

Method 2: Setting Up a Hidden SSID on Your Router

Another way to hide a network is by configuring your router to hide the SSID itself. This prevents the network from appearing on devices unless users know its name. Here’s how:

1. Open your browser and log in to your router’s admin panel. This is usually done by entering the IP address, such as 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
2. Go to the Wireless Settings section (names may vary depending on your router model).
3. Look for the Hide SSID option and enable it.
4. Save the settings and restart your router if needed.

With this setting, your network won’t appear in the list of available networks, but it remains accessible to anyone who knows the SSID and password.