An SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name assigned to a Wi-Fi network by its router. It acts as a unique identifier or network name that devices use to find and connect to a specific wireless network among multiple available ones nearby
. Typically, an SSID can be up to 32 characters long and may include letters, numbers, and special characters
. Routers broadcast their SSID to make the network discoverable by devices like smartphones and laptops. When you look at the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your device, each network’s name displayed is its SSID
. While routers come with default SSIDs (often a combination of the manufacturer’s name and random characters), users can change the SSID to a custom name for easier identification and to avoid confusion with other networks
. The SSID itself does not provide security; it is simply a network name. Most Wi-Fi networks also require a password or security key (such as WPA2 or WPA3) to connect, which protects the network from unauthorized access
. In summary, the SSID is the Wi-Fi network’s broadcast name that helps devices identify and connect to the correct wireless network in the area. It is essential for distinguishing networks but separate from the security mechanisms that protect the network connection
