How to Connect to a Hidden Wi-Fi Network in Windows

 

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only. Modifying Windows settings, executing system commands, transferring files, or recording screen activity is done entirely at your own risk. Always ensure your personal data is backed up and your privacy is protected. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any data loss, system instability, privacy breaches, or damages that may occur.

Connecting to a Wi-Fi network is usually as simple as clicking its name. But what if the network is hidden for security reasons and does not broadcast its SSID (Service Set Identifier)? Windows can easily connect to it, provided you know the exact network details. Here is how to do it.

How to Connect:

1. Open Network Settings: Click the Wi-Fi icon in your system tray (bottom right corner of the taskbar).

2. Find the Hidden Network: In Windows 11, click the arrow next to the Wi-Fi icon to manage networks, then select Hidden Network. In Windows 10, simply scroll to the bottom of the available Wi-Fi list and click on Hidden Network.

3. Enter the Details: Click Connect. You will be prompted to enter the exact name (SSID) of the hidden network. Type it carefully, as it is case-sensitive. Click Next.

4. Provide the Password: Enter the network's security key (password) and click Next. Windows will ask if you want your PC to be discoverable by other devices on this network; choose Yes or No based on your preference (No is safer for public networks).

If you entered the name and password correctly, your Windows PC will instantly connect to the hidden network!