How to find & connect a hidden WiFi network (SSID) in phone or PC?
Welcome to Blackview (Well-known brand of rugged phone, tablet, and mini PCs) blog. Hope the guide helps.
Hidden Wi-Fi networks, also known as SSID-cloaked networks, offer an extra layer of security by not broadcasting their network name (SSID). These networks deliberately conceal their names, requiring manual configuration to connect. While this deters casual snooping, it can also be frustrating if you need to connect to the network. However, fear not! There are some ways to find and connect to hidden WiFi networks on both your phone and PC. Let’s get straight to the point without further ado.
Important Note: Before connecting to a hidden WiFi network, ensure you have permission from the network owner. Connecting to unauthorized networks can be a security risk.
How to Find a Hidden Wi-Fi Network?
Unfortunately, there's no foolproof way to directly find the name (SSID) of a hidden network. However, here are some methods that might help you identify nearby hidden networks:
- Ask the Network Owner: The most reliable way is to inquire with the owner of the network for the SSID and password.
- Wi-Fi Analyzer Apps (Android): Several Wi-Fi analyzer apps for Android claim to detect nearby networks, including hidden ones. These apps might provide clues about hidden network presence (use with caution as effectiveness can vary).
- Third-Party Network Scanners (Windows): Similar to Android apps, there are network scanning tools available for Windows that might list nearby networks, including hidden ones. However, proceed with caution as some tools might be unreliable or have security risks.
Remember: These methods might not always be successful, and some tools might be intrusive or have hidden costs. It's best to prioritize the security of your device and avoid using untrusted apps or tools.
How to Connect Hidden WiFi Networks in a Phone (Android)?
Method 1:
- Access Wi-Fi Settings: Open your phone's Settings app and navigate to the "Wi-Fi" section.
- Add New Network: Look for the option to "Add Network" or "Add Wi-Fi network" (terminology might vary depending on your phone model).
- Enter Network Details:
- SSID: Manually type in the exact name of the hidden network (case-sensitive).
- Security: Choose the appropriate security type (e.g., WPA2 PSK, WPA PSK. General choosing WPA2 PSK). If you're unsure, consult the network owner for the correct selection.
- Password: Enter the Wi-Fi network password provided by the owner.
- Connect: Tap "Connect" or "Save" to connect to the hidden network. Your phone will attempt to establish a connection.
Method 2:
- Open the Wi-Fi Analyzer App in your phone/tablet.
- Waiting for the App to detect the available Wi-Fi networks.
- Tap the connectable Wi-Fi, which is shown in the networks list, to connect the Wi-Fi.
Note: Some Wi-Fi may not have a network at all. Suggest to try connecting to different Wi-Fi.
How to Connect to Hidden Wi-Fi in Windows 10 Laptop?
Method 1:
- Open Wi-Fi Settings: Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (bottom right corner). Select "Wi-Fi settings."
- Show Hidden Networks: Click on "Show available networks." Then, toggle the switch next to "See hidden networks."
- Connect to Hidden Network: Choose the hidden network name (SSID) from the list and click "Connect."
- Enter Network Details: Enter the network password when prompted. Select the security type (if not automatically detected) and click "Next" to connect.
Method 2:
With similar steps with Android connection, by using the third-party network scanner for Windows.
How to Connect to Hidden Wi-Fi in Windows 11 Laptop?
Method 1:
- Open Wi-Fi Settings: Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (bottom right corner). Select "Wi-Fi settings."
- Manage Known Networks: Click on "Manage known networks."
- Add a new network: Click on "Add" and then choose "Hidden network (SSID)."
- Enter Network Details: Enter the network name (SSID), security type (if not automatically detected), and password. Click "Next" to connect.
Method 2:
With similar steps with Android connection, by using the third-party network scanner for Windows.
Additional Tips:
- Network Discovery: If you're unsure of the hidden network name (SSID), consider using Wi-Fi analyzer apps (Android) or third-party network scanning tools (Windows) to help identify nearby networks (use with caution).
- Forgotten Password: If you forget the password for a previously connected hidden network (Android/Windows), you'll need to re-enter the details manually or reset the network settings on your device (which might erase other Wi-Fi connections).
By following these steps, you can unlock the world of hidden Wi-Fi networks on your Android phone, Windows 10 laptop, and Windows 11 laptop. Remember, prioritize security and connect only to authorized networks.
Read also,
