Version Windows 10 22H2
I just discovered a hidden network on my laptop. It is listed as "Hidden Network" Secured and the option to connect automatically is selected.
What is this?
Can I delete it?
How do I remove the "connect automatically" selection.
Than you.
Your computer has detected a nearby network that has had its 'SSID' [name] hidden.
The network is not "on" your computer, your WiFi adapter has merely detected its signal.
Since it is secure & you do not have the password fir it, you can never connect to it so it is not any kind of threat to you.
Actually, whilst the owner of that network might think they are further securing it by hiding its SSID, the opposite is the case. It provides an entirely false re-assurance.
You cannot delete somebody else's network. Their router broadcasts their network not your router.
All the best,
Denis
The majority of hidden SSID's are secondary and third channels for your actual Access Point. Just leave it alone. Wifi is like TV and Radio. It will see a multitude of radio signals on those bands, but until you actually connect to one, it is nothing more than a signal in the air.
Thank you all.
Very helpful answers.
Sadly I can't find a way on my android phone to thank you individually.
On many routers you might have an option like this: Broadcast Network Name (SSID): Enable/Disable. If you select Disable then the SSID for your router is "hidden" from any casual viewer. Of course that makes it hard for a visitor to login since they can't see it. In any case someone scanning the WiFi traffic with the proper software can still find it.
If you run a program like inSSIDer you can actually see all the hidden SSIDs.
MetaGeek inSSIDer
MetaGeek | inSSIDer - Defeat Slow Wi-Fi
The last time I ran inSSIDer there must have been at least 10-15 hidden SSIDs. Two of these hidden SSIDs have exactly the same signal strength as my router SSID. I assume they are local to me but do not know what they are.
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