How to find & connect a hidden WiFi network (SSID) in phone or PC?
Last updated 2025-06-06
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In today's hyper-connected world, WiFi has become as essential as electricity for many users. Yet, not all networks are openly visible—some remain hidden for security or organizational reasons. A hidden WiFi network doesn't broadcast its SSID (Service Set Identifier), making it invisible in standard network scans. But what if you need to connect to one? Whether for work, accessing a private home network, or troubleshooting, knowing how to find and connect to a hidden WiFi is a valuable skill for any tech-savvy individual.
Hidden WiFi networks add an extra layer of security by not appearing in the list of available networks. While this deters casual snoopers, it doesn’t make the network completely inaccessible—just slightly harder to detect. Many businesses, schools, and even privacy-conscious homeowners use this method to reduce unwanted connections. However, if you have the correct credentials (SSID and password), connecting is still straightforward—you just need to know where to look in your device’s settings.
Both smartphones and computers support connecting to hidden networks, though the process varies slightly between operating systems. On Windows and Android, the steps involve manually entering the network name instead of selecting it from a list. This guide will walk you through the exact methods for each platform, ensuring you can access hidden WiFi whether you're on a phone, laptop, or desktop. Understanding these steps can save time and frustration when dealing with secured networks.
You might wonder—why would someone hide their WiFi in the first place? The answer lies in security through obscurity. While hiding an SSID doesn’t provide robust protection against determined hackers, it does prevent random devices from attempting to connect. This reduces network clutter and minimizes brute-force attacks. However, it’s crucial to pair this with strong encryption (like WPA3) for actual security. If you’ve been given access to a hidden network, following the right steps ensures a smooth connection without unnecessary troubleshooting.
Before attempting to connect, you’ll need two key pieces of information: the exact SSID (case-sensitive) and the correct password. Mistyping either will result in connection failures, and since the network isn’t visible, errors can be confusing to diagnose.
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 Android Phone?
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.
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