Security In Seconds: What is an SSID?

Wi-Fi Security In Seconds

What is an SSID?

SSID is the technical term for the name of your network. When you are hooking up a device to your Wi-Fi for the first time, and you see the name of your home network, that name is your network’s SSID.

SSID is an acronym for Service Set Identifier. When a device connects to a Wi-Fi network, the SSID is the name it’s looking for, along with the password, to connect. This means that it’s best if the SSID for your network is unique when compared to other network names around you. If your device is set to automatically connect to your home network SSID named “Home-WIFI” and it sees your neighbor’s Wi-Fi with the same SSID, it might try to automatically connect to your neighbor’s Wi-Fi instead. Your device probably won’t connect successfully because the password is most likely different, however this may create some connection issues along the way.

When creating or changing your SSID, 32 characters is the max length, and the characters are case-sensitive. Just remember when choosing a name that it will be broadcasted to everyone within range around you. It is possible to hide your SSID so that you can still connect manually, but it won’t be discovered when selecting from the list of networks. However, it’s important to know that this does not make your network any more secure. The SSID is still being broadcasted, and simple wireless monitoring tools will still be able to see it along with all other Wi-Fi connection information.

Corey Belanger

Corey is a Security Consultant and leads QA of product development, using his expertise in these dual roles to more effectively test and secure applications, whether while building enterprise applications or while performing penetration tests and vulnerability assessments for customers. An Army veteran with a tour of duty in Afghanistan, Corey has built a post-military career in security while earning Network+, Security+, GIAC Certified Incident Handler, GIAC Python Coder, GIAC Web App Penetration Testing, and GIAC Penetration Tester certifications. Corey is also a BsidesNH organizer and founding member of TechRamp, avenues which he uses to help others build their skills for careers in security and technology. Fun Fact: When not manning a terminal or watching the Bruins, Corey can often be found snowboarding or riding his motorcycle.

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