What is an SSID (Service Set Identifier)? – Advisor Forbes

Although you can name your network and create a public identifier for a wireless network, most routers have a default SSID that is used to identify them. This can be the device name or a randomly generated string of numbers, but these can be changed by the user to create a unique network name that is easier to identify. In most cases, the default SSID will be placed somewhere easy to access if you have direct physical access to the device.

Router

Most routers have the name of the SSID printed on a label that is attached to the physical router. This label is usually located on the bottom of the device, but it can also be located on the back or side of the router, depending on its structure. In most cases, this tag will contain the SSID or Wi-Fi network name, as well as the provided default password or WPA keys. This allows anyone with physical access to the router to connect their device to the network with the correct credentials.

Windows

On Windows devices, you can find the SSIDs by opening the network menu. It can be opened from the desktop by finding the Wi-Fi icon on the taskbar, usually located in the lower right corner of the screen. This will display the SSID of the network you are connected to. It will also show other networks available in your area.

You can also access this information by clicking the Start menu, opening Settings, and selecting Network & Internet. This will display your network’s SSID.

Poppy

Similar to Windows, macOS allows you to access available SSIDs via a desktop menu shortcut. Click on the Wi-Fi icon, usually located in the upper right corner. A drop-down menu will appear with the network you are connected to, as well as information about other available wireless networks nearby.

You can also access this information by opening System Settings and then clicking Network. From there, you’ll be able to see the SSID of the network you’re connected to and other known networks.

Android

To find your SSID on Android, open the Settings app and tap the Connections option. Find the Wi-Fi option. This will display the SSID of the network you are connected to. If you tap on the SSID, you’ll see the names of other networks in your area that you can connect to.

iOS

If you’re using an iOS device like an iPhone or iPad, you can find your network’s SSID by opening the Settings app and selecting the Wi-Fi menu. This will display the name of the network you are currently connected to. If you open the menu, you will also be able to see the SSIDs of nearby networks.